Keep your eyes healthy when staring at a computer screen all day

Do remember to watch for glare on the screen

Outside sources of glare can be ceiling lights, desk lamps, and windows. Having reflections or glares on your screen is going to make it harder for your eyes to focus, which creates eye strain. Make sure that there are no reflections off the screen.

Do lower the monitor

We focus more accurately when looking slightly down as we view closer objects. Not too low but top of monitor just below eye level is fine. Prop your chair up a little bit more if the screen is too high, or place something under the monitor to help raise the screen if it is too low.

Do tilt the monitor

Just lowering the monitor while it is straight up and down will cause you to “turtle” your neck to see it clearly. With a slight tilt back at the top, the face of the screen will be in line with your face so the image will be clear.

Do blink, breathe and break

We tend to stare at our screens without blinking, as we also hold our breath when stressed. Taking breaks regularly is important, so follow the 20/20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds to look 20 feet away.

Do make sure you get an eye exam yearly

Note that the exam should address your “intermediate” viewing area; this is where your computer display sits. Distance vision is important, but seeing a display at your desk is different and needs additional testing from your doctor.

Do not keep the monitor too close

If you have difficulty seeing your display at 24 inches, then you might have an eye problem that needs attention. The 24 inch distance should be the minimum distance you sit from your screen; further back is OK as long as it’s clear and comfortable without squinting or leaning forward.

Do not use “eye whitener” eye drops

If your eyes are dry while working on your computer, you could have an inflammatory condition known as “dry eye disease”. Drops that promise to whiten your eyes usually make them worse, so don’t use them. If you must use eye drops to help your dry eyes, use a solution that are preservative free to replenish your tears. There are also prescription eye drops and natural supplements that you can get from your optometrist that help your body to produce more tears.

Do not get over-the-counter reading glasses

While using cheap glasses to read a menu in a dark restaurant might get you by, when you spend hours viewing a computer display, you need the right prescription. Guessing your glasses power at a drugstore isn’t the right way to go. Visit an eye doctor so that they can give you the prescription you need.

Do not put the display next to the window

While we all want to be outside (or at least see outside), our eyes will adapt to the dominant brightness, which is usually the window. That makes the display screen harder to see and causes more strain on your eyes.

Do not wear bifocals or progressive lenses

Traditional (lined) bifocals and even the newer progressive (no-line) multifocals are not designed to extensive intermediate range viewing. Most people prefer a full lens for computer viewing, so make sure you tell your doctor about your computer viewing habits and distances.