Working adults today spend almost all day looking at screens — computers, tablets and phones — which can cause tired eyes, dryness, stinging, temporary blurred vision or headaches. These symptoms can be prevented with simple habits.
The 20-20-20 rule
Every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something about 20 feet (around 6 metres) away for at least 20 seconds to let your eye muscles relax.
Blink more often
When staring at a screen we tend to blink less without realising it, which dries the eyes. Make a point of blinking slowly from time to time.
Set up your screen properly
- Place the screen about an arm's length from your eyes
- Keep the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level
- Match screen brightness to the room lighting
- Increase text size so you can read comfortably without straining
Mind the lighting around you
Avoid glare from windows or lamps reflecting on the screen, and don't use screens in a completely dark room.
Take breaks from your phone
Cut down on long stretches of phone use, especially before bed, and hold your phone a comfortable distance from your eyes.
Have regular eye checks
If you often have blurred vision, eye pain or headaches, or your glasses still feel uncomfortable, have your eyes checked by an ophthalmologist or optometrist.
If you often have blurred vision, eye pain or headaches, or your glasses still feel uncomfortable, have your eyes checked by an ophthalmologist or optometrist.
