5 Ways to Reduce Eyestrain

Take A Break

Whenever you’re working on a task that requires close concentration, take a break every 20 minutes or so. Look at a faraway object, such as a picture on the opposite wall, or a view out the window, for at least 30 seconds. By allowing your eyes to shift focus, you give them a rest.

Give Them A Rest

Briskly rub your hands together until they grow warm, and gently place the heels of your palms over your closed eyes. Hold them there for a few seconds.

If you soak a washcloth or hand towel in cool water, wring it out, and lay it over your eyes for five minutes, it will relieve strain.

Make Adjustments

Turn the contrast on your computer monitor to high. Letters and images become crisper.

Adjust your chair height so you’re looking slightly downward at the screen. Tilt the screen to meet your gaze. Make sure that your eyes are at least 20 inches from the screen.

Adjust your computer screen or close the shades near your work area so that you don’t have window-glare on the screen. If glare still bothers you, attach a special antiglare filter to the screen.

Give Your Glasses a Break

If you’re mildly nearsighted, try reading or viewing the computer screen without your “distance” glasses. Your eyes might be more comfortable that way.

Get Some Shade

In any bright sun, even in the winter, wear sunglasses. This will reduce eyestrain that comes from squinting. Choose sunglasses with yellow, amber, orange, or brown lenses. Light in the blue part of the spectrum is what makes us squint, and these lenses block it.