It’s normal for your eyes to grow tired if you look at your computer screen for lengthy periods of time. Too much screentime can cause a host of uncomfortable symptoms, including sore, watery, burning, and itchy eyes. You may develop a headache and experience blurry vision in some cases. It’s also not unusual for your eyes to become sensitive to light when they’re strained. To reduce this discomfort, keep these vision care suggestions in mind.

How to Reduce Eye Strain Due to Computer Use

1. Adjust the Lighting

It’s crucial to avoid a glare on your monitor, as this can tire your eyes out even more quickly. Avoid fluorescent lighting if possible and try to illuminate the room with natural light whenever possible. 

Make sure that your computer is positioned in such a way that the light doesn’t fall directly in front or behind the screen. If you need to use a lamp or floor lamp, set it to one side of the computer so that the light falls indirectly on the screen for more natural illumination and less intensity.

2. Apply the 20-20-20 Principle

According to this rule, you should give your eyes a break every 20 minutes. At each interval, train your eyes on something positioned approximately 20 feet away from you and stare at it for at least 20 seconds. This is an effective strategy for giving your eyes a workout and preventing the strain caused by harsh light.

3. Reposition the Monitor

For optimal vision care, your monitor should be situated at least 30 inches away from your eyes. Make sure that the top of the screen is at eye level. This will ensure that your eyes gaze downward, instead of upward, as you use the computer. It’s preferable to set your monitor on a platform of some kind if you find that your gaze is trained too low for your comfort.

If you seek a reliable optometrist in Lexington, KY, turn to Abel, Klecker & Robbins. The locally-owned and operated vision care provider is proud to serve the Central Kentucky community. They offer a host of services that ensure your eyes remain in the best condition possible. Rely on them for everything from eye exams to contact lens prescriptions. Visit the website for more information, or call (859) 269-6921 to schedule an appointment.