With the increasing use of computers in our daily lives, many of us experience eye strain or computer vision syndrome (CVS) symptoms. Staring at a computer screen for long hours can cause discomfort, blurry vision, dry eyes, and headaches.

However, there are several tricks that can help alleviate eye strain and prevent further damage. In this article, we will explore seven effective techniques to reduce eye strain from computer use.

1. Adjust Your Monitor Settings

The first trick to minimize eye strain is to adjust your monitor settings. Bright screens with high contrast and strong blue light emission can be particularly harsh on your eyes.

To reduce eye strain, make sure the brightness of your screen is similar to your surroundings. Moreover, adjust the color temperature to reduce blue light emission. You can easily do this through the display settings on your computer.

2. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

The 20-20-20 rule is a simple yet highly effective technique for reducing eye strain. It involves looking away from your screen every 20 minutes and focusing on an object that is at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

This exercise helps relax the eye muscles and prevents them from becoming fatigued. Set a timer or use specialized apps to remind you to follow this rule consistently.

3. Proper Lighting is Essential

Having the right lighting in your workspace is crucial for reducing eye strain. Avoid harsh, direct lighting that causes glare on your screen. Instead, opt for indirect and adjustable lighting that evenly illuminates your workspace.

Position your desk lamp in such a way that it does not create any reflections on your screen. Additionally, consider using curtains or blinds to reduce any external glare on your monitor.

4. Blink More Frequently

Staring at a screen for extended periods of time leads to a decrease in blink rate, resulting in dry and irritated eyes. Remember to blink frequently during computer use to keep your eyes moistened and prevent dryness.

Consider using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops if needed. Maintaining adequate moisture in your eyes can greatly reduce eye strain and discomfort.

5. Take Regular Breaks

Another effective way to reduce eye strain is to take regular breaks from your screen. Prolonged periods of continuous screen time can put a strain on your eyes and lead to fatigue.

Schedule short breaks, at least every hour, and engage in activities that allow your eyes to rest and refocus. Look away from your screen and focus on distant objects, stretch your body, or walk around to relax your eye muscles.

6. Position Your Monitor Correctly

The position of your computer monitor plays a significant role in reducing eye strain. Position the screen about 20 inches away from your eyes, slightly below your line of sight.

Ensure that the top edge of the screen is at or below eye level, reducing the strain on your neck and preventing you from tilting your head back. Adjust the tilt and height of your monitor to find the most comfortable viewing position.

7. Use Computer Glasses

If you spend a significant amount of time in front of a computer screen, consider investing in computer glasses. These glasses are specially designed to reduce eye strain and filter out harmful blue light emitted by digital devices.

Computer glasses can improve contrast and reduce glare, providing you with a more comfortable viewing experience. Consult with an eye care professional to determine if computer glasses are appropriate for you.

Conclusion

Eye strain from computer use is a common problem in today’s digital age. By implementing these seven tricks, you can significantly reduce eye strain, alleviate discomfort, and protect your eye health.

Remember to adjust your monitor settings, follow the 20-20-20 rule, and ensure proper lighting in your workspace. Blink frequently, take regular breaks, and position your monitor correctly. If necessary, consider using computer glasses to further protect your eyes from digital screens.

By incorporating these techniques into your daily routine, you can enjoy more comfortable and productive computer use without compromising your eye health.