In this pandemic time, digital footprints are increasing. Online communication has become more popular, with long hours staring at digital devices while working from home. Children, who are getting online learning, are exposed to digital devices than ever before.
You probably won’t be able to cut back on the use of these digital devices just yet. Using a computer or handheld device for extended amounts of time can cause physical stress to your body due to improper positioning such as slouching, sitting without foot support.
Regular eye examinations are an important health check for your eyes.
Don't postpone your appointment – eye clinics and optometrists are open and have safety measures in place to reduce the risk of coronavirus infection.https://t.co/q8XFhy2iRg#EyeWeek #VisionMatters pic.twitter.com/SeoVE1vrLt
— RNIB (@RNIB) September 21, 2020
Discomfort, fluctuating vision, or aching eyes, all these are the symptoms of eye strain. Here are some essential tips to protect your eyes from digital strain:
- Glare is the main cause of eye strain. Use blinds and curtains on windows to control the amount of light entering the room. Try to purchase lenses with an anti-reflective (AR) coating, as this helps to reduce glare by minimizing the amount of light reflected off the front and back surfaces of your spectacle lenses.
- You can also try to reduce glare from the external environment by drawing the window shades or blinds.
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- If possible, position your computer’s monitor such that the windows are at your side, instead of being in front of, or behind, your screen.
- Adjust the brightness of your screen to a comfortable level. It should be as close to the same brightness as your surroundings. This will help to increase the contrast on your screen to reduce eye strain.
- When we are using our digital devices, our blink rate goes down and this can lead to dry eyes. So make a conscious effort to blink as often as possible to moisten and refresh your eyes.
- Try your best to remember to follow the 20-20-20 rule. For every 20 minutes that you are on the screen, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
THE 20-20-20 RULE:
Prevent the Digital eye strain and reduce the effects of Computer Vision Syndrome
1.TAKE A BREAK FOR 20 SECONDS
2.LOOK AT AN OBJECT 20 FEET AWAY
3.REPEAT EVERY 20 MINUTES
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule and give your eyes the break they deserve.#iamdrgupta pic.twitter.com/1S7lrdnH8S— Dr Bhupinder K Gupta (@iamdrgupta) September 11, 2019
These simple tips will go a long way toward protecting your eyes in the work from home environment. It’s also important to discuss your eye problems with your doctor. Take a walk around your room, stretch your muscles to relax them. This will help to reduce your risk of headaches.
Make sure your prescriptions are up to date. Eat well, and get adequate sleep at night to give your eyes the much-needed rest.
