Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Deal With Eye Strain

If you work on a computer or have ever driven long-distance, you’ve likely dealt with an annoying case of eye strain. Eye strain results from overuse of the eye muscles. The symptoms vary, but the most common symptoms include blurry vision, eye pain and headache. Once the eye muscles are fatigued, discomfort can persist for several hours or days. But fortunately, there are ways to cure and prevent future occurrences.


Instructions


1. Get an annual eye examination. Eye strain can result from an underlying vision problem. Squinting and straining the eye muscles can cause fatigue. In turn, the eyes are unable to focus on one object for a lengthy period. Make an eye appointment with an optometrist. Wearing glasses or strengthening your present prescription may eliminate eye strain.








2. Take frequent breaks. Staring at a computer screen or gazing out a car window for several hours is enough to tire the eye muscles. Whenever possible, give your eyes a break. If you work on a computer, take mini 5- or 10-minute breaks throughout the day. Close your eyes and relax the muscles.


3. Reduce glare from windows and lights. Treating and preventing eye strain can be as simple as reducing the amount of light in your workspace. Light from windows and lamps can cause a glare. Wear tinted glasses to reduce glare. In addition, positioning your computer away from windows and overhead lights can minimize glaring.


4. Lower your computer’s brightness. If you can’t move your workstation, consider adjusting your computer’s contrast and brightness. Lowering the brightness darkens the screen and reduces glare.








5. Remember to blink. Blinking re-wets the eyes and prevents future irritation, including eye strain. However, people tend to blink less while working on a computer and driving. Make a conscious effort to blink frequently. Applying artificial tears throughout the day can also lubricate the eyes and get rid of eye strain.

Tags: from windows, your computer, several hours, work computer, your eyes