If you work in an office where you sit at a computer all the time or use your smartphone consistently, then you may already know that you may be damaging your eyes. Staring at a digital screen all the time can harm your eyes, and it can make them burn or feel dried out. You may discover that your eyes get red and you may also find that you become more nearsighted over time. To prevent doing permanent damage to your eyes while staring at a digital screen, follow these tips.
Get an Eye Exam
If you have not had an exam from an eye doctor in Orlando in over a year, schedule one very soon, and make it a priority to keep it. Before you go, measure how far it is from your eyes to the screen that you use most often. The doctor will spend extra time focusing on testing your vision within that range.
Use the Right Lighting
Overhead fluorescent lights make digital eye strain worse. Instead, when possible, floor lamps with soft LED lighting. If the boss does not agree, then suggest he switch to “full spectrum” fluorescent lighting. Try to eliminate any outside light from entering the room. If that is not possible, then try to face the screen so that the sun will not bounce off it and that you are not looking directly outside.
Adjust the Displays on Your Computer
If you are allowed, then adjust the displays on your computer. Changing the display is especially crucial if you are working on long documents. The brightness of your display should match the available light in your environment. If your computer screen seems to be a light source, then dim the brightness level a little. If your screen looks dim, then increase the brightness a tad. When possible, reduce the color temperature of your computer as this helps eliminate blue light rays, which are known to do the most damage.
Take Breaks
Do not look at your screen for more than 20 minutes at a time. If you cannot get up and move around, then rapidly blink as the tears your body produces will re-freshen your eyes. Additionally, stare at an object about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Position Other Work Properly
If you are working between your screen and a sheet of paper or a book, try positioning the material in an upright position near your computer screen. Then, make sure to light the content properly. A desk lamp can be a real asset if it does not shine directly into your eyes.
Wear Computer Glasses
If you frequently work on the computer, then talk to your eye doctor in Orlando about wearing computer glasses. They are particularly helpful for contact lens wearers or those with bifocals.
Make your appointment today at Eyes of Winter Park for an exam.