Tips to Reduce Eye Strain When Working From Home

Posted on April 9, 2020 in Vision Health

Smart phones, tablets, computers and TV screens have become part of everyday life to communicate in today’s world. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us were guilty of keeping our eyes locked on some type of glowing screen all day long. Now, with so many people working from home, we’re spending even more time looking at our screens.

As some of us have transitioned to working remotely, in addition to monitoring our own time staring at screens, some also have kids at home who are spending an increased amount of time on their screens.

We become so consumed in our work we even forget to blink. Studies have found we blink less when we are reading or watching a screen, which causes eyes to become dry and irritated. You have likely noticed that staring at screens causes eye strain. Eye strain can cause headaches, fatigue, blurred or double vision, pain around the eyes and other forms of discomfort. 

Here are a few tips to avoid eye strain:

• 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20 second break and look at least 20 feet away.
• Keep your distance: Make sure your computer screen is positioned at least an arm’s length away from your face.
• Schedule yearly eye exams: Even if you have perfect vision, it is always a good idea to get your annual vision exam to ensure your eyes stay healthy.
• Adjust the brightness: Your brightness level should not be lower or brighter than your surroundings.
• Take a break: It’s important for your vision health to take a 15-minute break about every two hours that you spend on your computer. Grab a quick walk before getting back to work.

If you’ve noticed that your eyes are red, seem sensitive to light, or have been watering more than usual, you likely have dry eyes. Some ways to avoid dry eyes include:

• Concentrate on blinking 10-15 times per minute.
• Add a humidifier to your home office.
• Position your computer screen a few inches below eye level.

Your eyes are the windows to your world so save yourself the headache and dry and tired eyes. Making these small adjustments can help your vision health and keep your “windows” clear from damage.