Working in an office can put a strain on your eyes. Harsh fluorescent lighting, not enough natural light, dark work areas, blue light from computer screens and touchscreen devices, and many other things combine to produce eyestrain. This situation is so common that more people are in need of eyeglasses for vision correction, as well as protection from harsh lighting.
As we observe Workplace Eye Wellness Month, it pays to ensure your eye health by making a few adjustments to your environment.
Use Your Computer’s Low Blue Light Feature
Most computer monitors and digital devices (smartphones, tablets) have a feature for reducing or eliminating blue light. Blue light is largely responsible for eyestrain while using a digital screen. By reducing or turning it off, you can protect your eyes from quickly getting tired and irritated.
Maintain Correct Distance From the Computer Screen
Your computer screen should be about an arm’s length from your eyes. This will help reduce eyestrain. However, don’t position yourself too far from your screen, either, that you have a hard time seeing what you’re looking at, as this will tire your eyes even more. Positioning the monitor slightly lower than eye level can also protect your vision.
Prevent Glare
Glare can make it more difficult to see what’s on your screen so you have to squint or look closer, which will result in eyestrain. To protect your eyes, choose a monitor that prevents or lowers glare. You can also adjust your workstation so windows and other light sources are not directly reflected on your screen. Wearing anti-glare glasses can also help.
If You Have to Squint, You’re Not Seeing Clearly
If you have to squint to see, then you’re not seeing clearly. Have a doctor check you for possible symptoms of health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, stress, and eye problems. See your optometrist if you need glasses. Choose lenses that provide protection from the blue light coming from computer screens and lights.
Avoid Touching Your Eyes
It’s common for people to touch their eyes, sometimes without even realizing it. Many rub their eyes when they’re tired, or if their vision becomes blurry. Avoid doing this. Every time you touch your eyes, you transfer germs from your hands to your eyes.
Change the Lights in Your Home Office
If like thousands of people right now, you are working from home, you have the freedom to change what you want in your home office setup. Replace the lights with those that have lower blue light emission. Many LED bulbs are kinder to the eyes. If possible, choose an area that receives more natural light, but position your work desk where there is less glare. You can also replace your monitor or adjust its position relative to eye level.
Protect your eyes from workplace-related problems. Get in touch with Eyes on Norbeck. We can give you a computer vision exam. Call us today at (301) 238-7199 or schedule an appointment here. We welcome patients from Rockville, MD.
