
And adjust the contrast and brightness to a level that's comfortable for you. The goal is to reduce how much your eyes need to readjust and how often you turn your neck and head. Some holders are designed to be placed between the keyboard and the monitor others are placed to the side. If you need to refer to print material while you work on your computer, place it on a document holder. It also helps to have a chair you can adjust. 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. Place an anti-glare cover over the screen. Close blinds or shades, and avoid placing your monitor directly in front of a window or white wall. If you need light for writing or reading, use an adjustable desk lamp. Consider turning off some or all of the overhead lights. The worst problems are generally from sources above or behind you, including fluorescent lighting and sunlight. Bright lighting and too much glare can strain your eyes and make it difficult to see objects on your monitor. Try the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.Ĭheck the lighting and reduce glare. Throughout the day, give your eyes a break by looking away from your monitor.

Try to make it a habit to blink more often when looking at a monitor. Blinking produces tears that moisten and refresh your eyes. Many people blink less than usual when working at a computer, which can contribute to dry eyes. If you work at a desk and use a computer, these self-care steps can help take some of the strain off your eyes. Ask your optometrist about lens coatings and tints that might help too.Ĭomputer use is a common cause of eyestrain. If you need glasses or contacts and work at a computer, consider investing in glasses or contact lenses designed specifically for computer work. Moving your chair to a different area may help reduce the amount of dry moving air on your eyes and face. Some changes that may help prevent dry eyes include using a humidifier, adjusting the thermostat to reduce blowing air and avoiding smoke. Improve the air quality of your space.However, don't use them more than four times a day. If this occurs, switching to preservative-free eye drops can be helpful. If you use eye drops containing preservatives, you may develop a sensitivity to the preservative if you use the drops more than four times a day.

Avoid eye drops with a redness remover, as these may worsen dry eye symptoms.Įye drops that don't contain preservatives can be used as often as you need. Your eye specialist can suggest which eye drops might be best for you. Use them even when your eyes feel fine to keep them well lubricated and prevent a recurrence of symptoms. Nonprescription artificial tears can help prevent and relieve dry eyes. This is especially important for children, who may not make the connection between extended viewing, eyestrain and the need to rest their eyes regularly.

When reading or doing close work, take occasional breaks and rest your eyes by looking away from the page, digital screen or task. The shade will keep light from shining directly into your eyes. If you're reading at a desk, use a shaded light positioned in front of you. When reading printed materials or doing close work, try to position the light source behind you and direct the light onto your page or task. When watching television, it may be easier on your eyes if you keep the room softly lit. Consider these tips to reduce or prevent eyestrain.Īdjust the lighting.
