Do you get frequent headaches at work? Are you eyes tired and dry by the end of the day? These are good indicators that you may be suffering from eyestrain. Other symptoms include blurred or double vision, pain in the eyes, red and watery eyes, burning sensation when you close your eyes, and muscle spasms in the area around your eyes.

Here are some practical tips for relieving and preventing eyestrain:

• Adjust your monitor – Your screen should be centered directly in front of you at eye level. If it is too low, consider using a monitor riser to raise it to the necessary level. Also, confirm that your screen is the correct distance from your eyes for optimum focus. While sitting with your back against your chair, extend your arms straight out toward your monitor; your middle fingers should barely touch your monitor.
• Blink frequently – Keeping your eyes hydrated will reduce soreness and irritation. You may find it helpful to use over-the-counter eye-drops; talk to your pharmacist or doctor about recommendations.
• Look away – Refocus your eyes approximately every ten minutes. Look away from your monitor for at least 20 seconds and focus on something in the distance, about 20 feet away, then resume work.
• Take a vision break – Once an hour, just close your eyes and relax for about a minute. This can significantly reduce the pain and strain of your eyes.
• Get rid of glare – Adjust the lighting or window coverings to assure that there is no direct reflection or glare on your screen. If you are unable to eliminate the glare, use a glare filter. For best results, always keep the monitor clean and free of dust and debris.
• Use a document holder – A document holder can reduce the work on your eyes, neck and shoulders while typing. Make sure to place the document as close to your monitor as possible and at same distance away from your eyes. This will reduce any repeated focus changes for your eyes.
• Wear sunglasses – Sunglasses can significantly reduce glare while you are driving or working outside. For best results, be sure to find glasses that provide 100% protection from ultraviolet.
• Visit your eye doctor – Eye strain is most effectively relieved by rest. If you continue to suffer discomfort or notice a change in your vision, go in for an eye exam as soon as possible to ensure that other factors are not causing to your pain.

The muscles in your eyes can be overworked, just like any other muscle in your body. Many computer users and heavy readers suffer from headaches and eye strain, but this pain can and should be avoided. Follow these tips to relieve to your current discomfort and protect yourself future pain.

Filed under: Category Business, Health | Tags: document holder,eye strain,headache,monitor riser,pain by emily