One of the most common questions we get from our patients is how to reduce eyestrain. Whether you’ve had LASIK or not, spending too much time on the computer or reading small print can make you eyes tired. If your eyes get tired, you might notice that you have dry eyes or a bad headache. Most of the time, eyestrain cannot be corrected with treatment, but there are some daily habit changes you can make to reduce your eyestrain.
Take Breaks from the Screen
Working a job that involves a lot of computer work can be hard on your eyes. It’s important to take frequent breaks from looking at digital screens. This includes your phones, tablets and TVs, too. If you have to work at a computer for a long time, blink often to refresh your eyes.
Adjust Screen Brightness and Color
Adjust your screen brightness if it is too bright for you. Blue lighting, which is used for backlit screens, is hard on the eyes. Some monitors and phones have a setting that changes the screen to a yellow-tinted light, making it easier on the eyes.
Limit Screen Time
Taking breaks is important, but limiting your screen time overall is a good way to reduce eyestrain. This is especially important for children, who may not realize that they need get away from the screen and rest their eyes.
Adjust Lighting
When you’re using your computer or watching TV, you can reduce eyestrain by adjusting the lighting in the room, making it softly lit and not too bright or too dark. If you’re reading printed materials, position the light behind you or focus it on the page. When working at a desk, use a shaded lamp and make sure the light isn’t shining directly in your eyes.
Use Artificial Tears
If you notice your eyes getting dry from excessive screen time, using artificial tears is a good way to decrease dryness and discomfort. It is recommended to use artificial tears every hour that you are on the computer, because studies have shown that you blink nearly five times less than normal when working on a computer screen.
Eyestrain is an annoyance and can seem inevitable, but daily habit changes can help reduce the amount of strain you’re putting on your eyes.  But if you notice your vision deteriorating and have trouble all the time, contact us to see if you qualify for LASIK.