Here are a few tips for avoiding eye strain caused by computer workstations. First, make sure you take breaks from your workstation every 20 minutes and look away for at least 20 seconds. This 20-20-20 rule is also known as “relaxing your eyes.”
Angle of gaze
One of the best ways to minimize screen time and keep your eyes healthy is to change the angle of your gaze. Unfortunately, many people tilt their heads at an odd angle and lean inward to see the screen, causing muscle spasms and discomfort. Avoid these bad habits at all costs.
Take frequent breaks from computer work. While cutting down screen time is ideal, it’s not always possible. Instead, adjust the computer screen’s angle to around 15-20 degrees below your eye level. This will help relieve strain and sleep better. Aside from this, taking frequent breaks will relax stiff muscles caused by prolonged computer use. Take frequent breaks every 20 minutes.
Proper eyeglass prescription
A proper eyeglass prescription is essential to avoid eye strain from prolonged screen time. Use the best blue-light blocking glasses to prevent eye fatigue. In addition to reducing eye strain, an adequate drug will help you focus better on the screen without causing pain to your eyes. You may also need to limit screen time before bedtime. Experts recommend that you stop using screens at least 15 minutes before going to bed. In addition, long periods of screen time can increase the risk of short-sightedness, especially for people with genetics, ethnic background, and near-tasks.
Computer screens produce concentrated blue light. Prolonged exposure can lead to eye strain and headaches. You can choose blue-filtering glasses or prescription sunglasses.
Taking a break
Screen time has been linked to eye strain, fatigue, and sleep problems. Breaks can be as simple as looking out a window for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. Breaking the screen time habit can reduce eye strain and provide a mental break. Children especially need frequent breaks from screens.
Taking breaks from screen time can also help with stress and productivity. Studies have shown that computer users blink only about one-fourth of their eyes, increasing their dry eye risk. Taking breaks every 20 minutes is vital for your eyes. Look away from the screen at least once every 20 minutes to hydrate your eyes and get some fresh air. The American Optometric Society recommends that you take a break every 20 minutes from screen time and look at something 20 feet away.
Self-care steps
To prevent eye strain, limit the amount of time spent on activities that require intense focus. While reading or working at a desk, use dim light to reduce the amount of light that comes directly into your eyes. Limit screen time and get up to stretch your muscles. Children may not understand the connection between prolonged viewing and eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule is an excellent recommendation for avoiding eye strain from digital devices.
Many people are using screens for everything, from work to relaxation. However, long-term exposure to this light can damage retinal cells and cause age-related macular degeneration. Experts recommend taking breaks from screen time and reducing the amount of time you spend on a computer. One optometrist in Australia specializing in binocular vision, tear film, and dry eye recommends taking a break every 20 minutes to prevent eye strain.