In the shift towards remote working, many of us find ourselves glued to digital screens for extended periods. This increased exposure can lead to digital eye strain, a condition marked by headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes. As an eye care specialist in Calgary, we are committed to helping you maintain optimal eye health. Here are effective strategies to minimize eye strain and keep your vision clear as you navigate the world of remote work.
Optimize Your Workspace for Eye Health
Setting up an ergonomically friendly work environment is crucial for reducing eye strain. Ensure your computer screen is about an arm’s length away and positioned slightly below eye level. This setup helps maintain a comfortable viewing distance and reduces the need to strain your neck and eyes. Additionally, consider the lighting in your workspace. Excessive brightness or high contrast between your screen and the surrounding room can increase eye strain. Aim for soft, natural lighting, and use blinds or curtains to control the influx of sunlight.
Embrace the 20-20-20 Rule
To give your eyes a break, adopt the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, shift your focus to an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice helps alleviate the fatigue associated with continuous focus on a screen. It not only refreshes your vision but also reduces the risk of focusing fatigue.
Customize Screen Settings for Comfort
- Adjust Brightness: Align the brightness of your display with the level of light around you to avoid straining your eyes.
- Increase Text Size: Boost the font size on your screen for easier reading, which can significantly decrease the strain on your eyes.
- Reduce Blue Light: Utilize a blue light filter on your digital screens. Many devices have built-in options to reduce blue light, or you can download an app that accomplishes this.
Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining excellent eye health, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms of eye strain. As part of your eye care routine, ensure to keep your prescription up to date and discuss any concerns about eye strain with your specialist.
Stay Hydrated and Blink Often
Dehydration can contribute to dry eyes, worsening the symptoms of eye strain. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Additionally, make a conscious effort to blink often, especially while using a computer. Blinking helps renew tear film and prevents the dryness associated with staring at a screen.
Need Expert Eye Care? Call Us!
If you’re struggling with eye strain or have other eye health concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. At our Calgary office, we’re dedicated to providing you with personalized eye care tailored to your needs. Call us today at (587) 355-5433 to schedule an appointment. Protect your vision and enhance your productivity in the remote work environment with professional eye care.