{"id":20615,"date":"2022-02-15T08:26:36","date_gmt":"2022-02-15T08:26:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/?page_id=20615"},"modified":"2022-02-15T08:26:36","modified_gmt":"2022-02-15T08:26:36","slug":"how-to-avoid-computer-eye-strain","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/general-practice-optometry\/guide-to-eye-conditions\/guide-to-blurry-vision-and-headaches\/how-to-avoid-computer-eye-strain\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Avoid Computer Eye Strain?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Over 60% of students and adults suffer from computer eye strain.<\/b><\/h2>\n

Studies show that most American students and adults spend about 11 hours per day on digital devices, including computers, smartphones and tablets.<\/p>\n

The average U.S. household owns 7.3 screens, with the percentage of households with smartphones now at 79%, computers at 78% and tablets at 68%<\/b>.<\/p>\n

While excessive computer use may not permanently damage your vision, it can lead to significant ocular discomfort and a condition called computer vision syndrome<\/a>.<\/p>\n

According to The Vision Council, over 6 out of 10 people who spend multiple hours per day in front of a digital screen, experience symptoms of computer eye strain, also known as digital eye strain<\/a>.<\/b><\/p>\n

Digital eye strain causes dry eyes, blurry vision, headaches and neck and shoulder pain.<\/p>\n

While screen time may be unavoidable these days, there are ways that you can reduce your chances of developing computer eye strain and computer vision syndrome.<\/p>\n

Here are some of our top tips:<\/i><\/p>\n

1. Set up a comfortable work space<\/b><\/h2>\n

Your work desk and chair do more than define your workspace. A comfortable chair that encourages you to sit up straight and provides just the right support, will not only increase your physical comfort, it will increase your work productivity and allow you to work for longer periods of time.<\/p>\n

The height of your desk also matters, as it allows you to sit in alignment with your computer screen, with your head in a neutral position\u2014 avoiding neck and shoulder pain.<\/p>\n

Be sure to adjust your screen so that it stands about an arm\u2019s length away, pointing slightly downward\u2014 this is the most comfortable position for your neck and your eyes.<\/p>\n

2. Adjust lighting<\/b><\/h2>\n

Bright or harsh lighting is a common culprit when it comes to eye strain. Whether it\u2019s natural light or harsh fluorescents that are causing your eyestrain, it is important to adjust your lighting to your eyes\u2019 liking.<\/p>\n

Close blinds and curtains in the room to keep excessive light out, and opt for lower intensity light bulbs in your office.<\/p>\n

3. Blink often<\/b><\/h2>\n

Blinking is important for keeping the eyes lubricated and moist and reducing the risk of dry eyes<\/a> \u2014 which is a common symptom of computer eye strain.<\/p>\n

However, studies show that when using a digital device, most people tend to blink less often.<\/p>\n

To reduce your risk of eye strain from dry eyes, try to be aware of how often you blink, and get into the habit of blinking more frequently when using any type of digital device.<\/p>\n

4. Take screen breaks<\/b><\/h2>\n

Taking frequent breaks away from your screen will not only give you a chance to stretch your muscles, it will also give your eyes a chance to relax, so they can work more efficiently for longer periods of time.<\/p>\n

Implement the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away, for at least 20 seconds.<\/p>\n

SEE RELATED: <\/b>Why Do Computers Cause Dry Eyes?<\/a><\/p>\n

If computer eye strain is affecting your quality of life, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor near you<\/a> to determine if a vision problem is at the root of your discomfort.<\/b><\/p>\n\n\t

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