The gig economy created ample opportunities to work from home and perform remote tasks, meaning people are spending more time than ever before in front of a computer screen. The excessive amount of uninterrupted time spent in front of computer monitors created the ailment of computer vision syndrome, which is a real condition, resulting in dry eyes, vertigo, eye strain, double vision, and headaches. While prescription safety glasses can help correct some of the issues many people face, other tactics or solutions can provide some relief to the syndrome’s symptoms.
1. The 20/20/20 Rule
One of the best ways to prevent straining your vision is to exercise and refocus it frequently. The 20/20/20 rule is a simple routine, but it is likely the most efficient and easily instilled practice currently available. To put it into practice, you work in front of the computer for 20 minutes; then, look away for 20 seconds, focusing on an object that is 20 feet away. Another similar exercise is to work for 20 minutes and alternate between focusing on a distant and close object for 15 seconds each.
2. Adequate Lighting
People often assume that a brighter workspace is better, but that is not always the case. When it comes to working on a computer, you want the computer area to be about 50% as bright as the rest of your office in terms of ambient light.
If your office is too bright, or you find that the windows reflect too much into your monitor, consider purchasing window coverings. Blinds or curtains can provide significant relief to your eyes, leading to prolonged and more effective performance.
3. Correct Monitor
While most current monitors in production are flat-panel liquid crystal displays, some people still have cathode ray tube units. The CRT models flicker, causing significant eye strain, even if you do not notice it.
LCD monitors not only resolve the flickering of the CRT models, but they also perform better. The monitors come with anti-reflective surfaces, larger displays, and are more durable. All around, LCD technology is better for your eyesight.
4. Monitor Settings
Even when using the correct monitor with the proper lighting, your computer screen can still lead to eye fatigue or other issues. To reduce the possible risks further, consider adjusting your monitor and display settings. First, adjust the brightness. While the screen should not be duller than the surrounding room, it should also not appear as a light source. If you struggle to find the appropriate light level, consider looking into apps for help.
Second, adjust the color temperature of your display. Blue light is more problematic than red or orange light because of its wavelengths. Eye fatigue is a direct result of blue light exposure; therefore, you want to find a balance that limits or reduces eye fatigue.
Finally, you can alter your text size and color, making it more comfortable to read. For example, larger text on a high-contrast background is easier to read (think black and white).
5. Schedule Breaks
Breaks are crucial to protecting your eyes and eliminating eye strain risks. While the 20/20/20 rule is useful, you still need to find time during the day to take longer breaks away from the computer. Your eyes need time to rest. Spending eight hours straight in front of a computer is a surefire way to cause damage or injury.
6. Prescription Computer Glasses
If working in front of a computer screen for long periods is unavoidable, consider talking to an eye doctor. An optometrist can examine your eyes and determine if prescription glasses for computer use are in your best interest. These glasses can also help reduce strain and focus problems.
Are you interested in prescription computer glasses, or do you need to take longer breaks? While the above steps can help reduce your eye strain, you might need to consult with a doctor for more specific and concrete solutions.
To read more on topics like this, check out the Health category
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