Working From Home? How to Protect Your Eyes From Your Computer
Even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, millions of people were already working remotely. Thanks to advancements in technology, telecommuting has become more popular than ever.
While there are some advantages to working from home, including more flexibility, there are also some potential drawbacks. For one, it can be hard to stay focused and productive. But, even if you find yourself enjoying remote working and you’re doing well with it, it’s more important than ever to practice self-care and look after your wellbeing.
If you’re staring at a computer all day, a big component of that involves taking care of your eye health.
Staring at a computer screen for too long can cause fatigue, headaches, and even could make it difficult to fall asleep at night.
So, what can you do to protect your eyes when you’re staring at a computer all day for work?
Take a Break Every Two Hours
One of the biggest mistakes people make when working at a computer all day is not taking enough frequent breaks. If you’re prone to forgetting your regular breaks, set a timer for every two hours.
Once your timer goes off, step away from your computer for at least 15 minutes. You can use this time to close your eyes and rest, take a walk outside, or complete a chore around the house. One thing to avoid, however, is looking at other electronics. Don’t use this time to look at your phone or tablet. Try to avoid any and all screens during your breaks throughout the day.
Stay Hydrated
Did you know that your eyes can dry out or become itchy when you’re staring at a screen because you’re not drinking enough water? Hydration is important for every part of your body, including your eyes.
If you are drinking enough water (and eating a healthy diet) and your eyes are still constantly itchy, it may be time to see an optometrist to make sure there isn’t another underlying condition going on.
Position Your Computer Correctly
Make sure to have your computer positioned right at your eye level, so you aren’t straining to look up or down at whatever is on your screen. Additionally, it’s a good idea to keep your computer at least an arm’s length away from your face. The light from it can do more permanent damage to your eyes if it is constantly too close.
Finally, adjust the brightness levels on your computer. This is a quick and easy way to reduce strain and make your eyes feel more comfortable. The brightness of your computer should never be more than the brightness of the room you’re in. So, make sure you’re in a well-lit space with a lot of natural light to avoid getting headaches or feeling tired.
While working from home has become the new norm for many people, it doesn’t have to cause problems with your eyes. Keep these tips in mind while you’re working remotely, and you’ll keep your eyes healthy. As a bonus, you might even notice that you have more energy and fewer headaches!
