Five Ways to Keep Your Eyes From Growing Tired While in Front of a Computer

(Originally posted on LinkedIn)

The majority of professionals spend an average of over seven hours a day in front of a computer. That doesn't even include post-work screen time on TVs, tablets, and phones! Though it's necessary for most to utilize a computer to be successful at work, it can cause significant eye strain: tired, dry eyes, blurry vision, headaches, and shoulder/neck pain. Here are five ways to keep your eyes healthy, so you can be as efficient as possible!

1) Use computer glasses or reflective lenses

Being fixated on a computer screen for so many hours a day exposes us to harmful artificial blue light, that over time, can decrease visual clarity cause premature eye aging, and potentially harm your retina. Utilizing blue light glasses while working can drastically mitigate those risks. Click here to take a look at the most highly-rated options!

2) 20-20-20 Rule

Throughout the day, give your eyes a break by looking away from your monitor. Try the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

3) Adjust your work environment

Position your monitor directly in front of you about an arm's length away so that the top of the screen is at or just below eye level. Adjust your desk or chair to create a healthy alignment.

4) Keep your eyes lubricated

Dry eye is a common cause for eye discomfort and may be a side-effect of constant screen-time. The most effective ways to do this are to blink often and use artificial tears/eye drops and/or a humidifier.

5) Lighting

Correct lighting makes a big difference! Your ambient lighting should be brighter than your monitor. This reduces some of the strain from the glare of monitors and devices. Poor lighting contributes significantly to eye strain.