Last Updated on January 7, 2023 by Ellen
There are many jobs that require you to spend hours a day online including data entry, blogging, clerical jobs, and programmers. Over the years, I’ve had many of these jobs so digital eye strain is something that I’m very familiar with.
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How to Deal With Digital Eye Strain
If the majority of your workday is spent in front of a computer screen then it’s in your best interest to take measures against digital eye strain. So, what are the symptoms of digital eye strain? This problem is also known as computer vision syndrome.
The most common symptoms are:
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Neck soreness
- Frequent squinting
Did you know that more than 80% of adults report using digital devices like iPhones, laptops, notebooks, and computers?-0
How do you treat digital eye strain?
If you work at a desk and are experiencing these symptoms, take a break. Blink your eyes to refresh them. Check the lighting in your office and reduce glare when possible. Adjust your monitor. Use a document holder instead of placing your documents on flat on your desk.
If you use your computer extensively and are experiencing those symptoms then you may want to set up an appointment for an eye exam. Your local optician will have a variety of prescription eyeglasses to choose from. Adjust your screen settings until you find one that works best for you.
Do eye drops help eye strain?
Computer Eye Relief helps eye strain by making your eyes feel refreshed. It stimulates your body’s natural ability to deal with blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and dry eyes.
Do glasses help eye strain?
Getting anti-reflective coating on your new prescription glasses is a very effective way to combat digital eye strain because it reduces the glare from your computer screen. Most opticians include this coating free of charge with the purchase of a new pair of eyeglasses. Remember to use an FSA account to save for unexpected expenses like glasses. That way you can use your pre-tax dollars.
Digital eye strain glasses
Some opticians know this coating as anti-glare coating, so be sure to tell them both terms when you’re shopping for new glasses. If you don’t wear prescription glasses you can ask your optician for a pair of non-prescription glasses with anti-glare coating and you’ll receive the same benefit. These blue light blocking glasses are often recommended.
Give Your Eyes a Break
Another great way to reduce digital eye strain is to give your eyes a break every 20 minutes and look at something in the distance for twenty seconds. That may seem like a lot, but it only amounts to you looking away from your screen for one minute every hour. If you can’t remember to do that set alarms on your phone to remind you. If you don’t want to do that, then set a goal to look away from your computer screen three times every hour. Learn how to blog smarter and save time online.
Not So Bright Please
One more practical way to reduce digital eye strain is to adjust the screen brightness of your computer monitor and your cell phone. If you’re not sitting outside than neither of these devices need to be set to 100% brightness. Try reducing both to 50% brightness today. Your eyes should definitely feel better at the end of the day.
What is the 20/20 rule?
There is a simple tip that may help with digital eye strain. Every 20 minutes, look away at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This may be enough of a break to allow your eyes to relax.
Between blogging, eBay and my full-time job, tired achy eyes are definitely something I’m prone to. Thankfully, by following a few of these tips I have managed to reduce the frequency that it bothers me. I’ve also started taking vitamins with Lutein at the recommendation of my physician.
They also make special screens you can get for your laptop and the computer monitor that will help you reduce the glare and blue light.
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Ellen is a serial entrepreneur who owns 9 profitable blogs, two printable stores, an online vintage jewelry business, and a variety of other work at home endeavors. She shares tips for working at home successfully.