March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, and there’s no better time to raise awareness about the importance of eye health in the workplace. In today’s digital age, people are spending more time than ever staring at screens, leading to a condition called digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent or reduce digital eye strain. Keep reading to learn more about the causes of digital eye strain and how you can protect your vision.
What is digital eye strain?
Digital eye strain is a condition caused by the extended use of electronic devices, such as computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. The symptoms include dry or red eyes, headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and blurred vision. If you experience any of these symptoms and work with digital screens all day, you may suffer from digital eye strain.
How can you prevent digital eye strain?
There are several things you can do to prevent or reduce digital eye strain in the workplace:
- Adjust your screen settings: Make sure your screen’s brightness and contrast are set to a comfortable level. Adjust the font size and screen resolution so that you can read text comfortably without squinting or straining your eyes.
- Take frequent breaks: Staring at a screen for long periods can strain your eyes. Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and look at something at least 20 feet away. Focusing on something in the distance helps give your eyes a rest.
- Blink regularly: When staring at a screen, people tend to blink less often, which can cause dry eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink regularly to keep your eyes moist and prevent dryness.
- Use proper lighting: Bright lighting and glare can strain your eyes. Adjust your workspace lighting to reduce glare and use a desk lamp if necessary.
- Adjust your workspace: Make sure your computer screen is positioned at the right height and distance. The screen should be about an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level. Adjust your chair height and position so that your feet are flat on the floor and your back is supported.
- Get regular eye exams: Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential for maintaining good eye health. Certain eye conditions and uncorrected refractive errors can cause eyestrain and discomfort. Schedule an appointment with an eye doctor to check your eyesight and ensure that your eyes are healthy.
In conclusion, digital eye strain is a common problem in the workplace, but there are many ways to prevent it. By following these tips, you can help protect your eyes and maintain good eye health. If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms of digital eye strain, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our eye care professionals in New Albany and Corinth!