6 Quick And Easy Ways To Relieve Eye Strain At Work

Long hours in front of the computer screen or other electronic devices can take a toll on your eye muscles, leading to digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. You might suddenly feel a burning sensation, and your eyes become reddish and water easily. Other symptoms include blurry or double vision, sensitivity to light and headaches.

It’s a common problem in Singapore as most of us are typically glued to one kind of screen, whether it’s the office computer or our handphones, tablets and TVs. Try one (or all) of the following techniques to help alleviate the discomfort and refresh tired eyes:

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1. Adjust your screen settings

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You may not realise it but your screen may be too dark, causing your eye muscles to have to work harder, or too bright and glaring, thus straining your eyes. And you’ve become so accustomed to it that you aren’t aware until somebody points it out. Make sure that the screen display brightness is about the same as your surroundings, and ensure that the text is a comfortable size so you’re not squinting.

Photo: Unsplash

2. Distance matters

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Align your monitor or screen correctly and at the correct distance so you don’t have to strain your eyes as you work. The screen should be 50 to 60 cm away from your eyes, so lean back if you find yourself inching towards the screen.

Look straight ahead – are you looking slightly downwards or upwards at the screen? Your eyes should always be level with the top of the monitor. If you have a tablet, use a stand if possible.

Photo: Unsplash

3. Abide by the 20-20-20 rule

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Everyone knows the importance of vision breaks, but what exactly do you do during these breaks? Here’s one way to ensure that your “vision break” isn’t wasted: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet (or 6 metres) away for at least 20 seconds. These short muscle breaks can stave off eye strain in the long run.

Photo: Unsplash

4. Blink more often

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Research says that people working on computers blink a third less than normal. Blinking is essential as it keeps your eyes moist and prevents them from getting dry and irritated. This is especially important if you work in an air-conditioned office where the air is always dry.

Photo: Unsplash

5. Massage your eyes

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Rub your hands together for warmth, then press them gently over closed eyelids for a bit of instant relief. Take advantage of tech like Novita’s The M Series Eye & Temple Massager EM 8, a handy device designed to refresh and revive tired eyes on-the-go. It combines air pressure technology, strategically positioned airbags for blood circulation around the eyes and temple area, and an innovative infrared heat therapy to give you that warm, soothing sensation.

6. Consider blue light lenses

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Exposing your eyes to blue light radiation emitted from your screens and even light sources can be damaging to your retina. Visit your optician and ask for computer lenses or blue light lenses that you can put on each time you’re doing work in front of a screen.

Try the W EYExperience at W Optics, a comprehensive 30-minute eye examination that thoroughly assess your eyes and detect problems more accurately.

Text: Bauer / Additional Reporting: Elizabeth Liew
Photo: Unsplash

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6 Quick And Easy Ways To Relieve Eye Strain At Work

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