Updated October 17, 2024 – Do you spend hours in front of a screen and often feel your eyes getting tired, itchy, or even painful? You could be experiencing digital eye strain, affecting 70-75% of computer users. With the average adult spending nine hours a day on screens, it’s no surprise that eye strain has become a common issue. But don’t worry—there are simple things you can do to prevent it and reduce discomfort.
1. Keep Your Screen at a Safe Distance
One of the easiest ways to prevent eye strain is to position your screen correctly. Optometrists recommend keeping your monitor 20-30 inches away from your eyes. An easy way to measure this is by stretching your arm out—your fingertips should be able to touch the screen.
Also, make sure your eyes are level with the top of your monitor so you’re looking slightly downward at the screen. If the text isn’t clear from this distance, it might be time to visit your optometrist for vision correction.
2. Give Your Eyes a Rest Every 30 Minutes
Taking regular breaks from the screen is a way to prevent digital eye strain. Aim for “mini-breaks” every 30 minutes.
Try these simple ways to give your eyes (and body) a rest:
- Take a short walk to stretch your legs
- Stand up and stretch your shoulders and back
- Look away from the screen for 20 seconds to relax your eyes
3. Try Lenses Designed to Help with Digital Eye Strain
Some contact lenses, like Biofinity Energys and Bausch + Lomb ULTRA contact lenses, are designed to combat eye strain caused by digital screens. These lenses feature a “digital optics zone,” specifically designed to reduce strain from focusing on close-up objects like screens. If eye strain continues to be an issue, talk to your optometrist about whether specialized lenses might be right for you.
Shop Affordable High-Quality Contacts at Lens.com
4. Remember to Blink More Often
When we’re focused on screens, we tend to blink less frequently, which can lead to dry, irritated eyes. Normally, people blink about 15 times per minute, but that drops by a third during computer use.
Make a conscious effort to blink more often—ideally every 10-15 seconds. This will naturally moisten your eyes and keep them from drying out. If you’re still experiencing dryness, talk to your optometrist about using artificial tears for additional relief.
5. Tackle Glare and Bright Lights
Excessively bright lighting, whether from sunlight or indoor lighting, can worsen computer eye strain. Here’s how to minimize it:
- Close the blinds or curtains to reduce outdoor light
- Use floor lamps instead of harsh overhead lights
- Adjust the brightness settings on your screen for comfort
Glare is another common culprit. You can reduce glare on your monitor by installing an anti-glare screen.
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Did These Tips Help?
Are you feeling relief from computer eye strain? Small changes like adjusting your screen distance, taking frequent breaks, and blinking more often can make a big difference. If you still feel discomfort, it’s time to explore specialized contact lenses or other vision solutions. Visit Lens.com to find the right products to keep your eyes comfortable throughout your workday.
Summary Graphic: How to Prevent Digital Eye Strain
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