TCnbc Magazine - 17
Adjust your monitor and Lighting
Whenever possible place your monitor so that any bright light sources are off to the side at a right angle to your screen. Bright light coming from behind your monitor or from behind you will only make your screen harder to see and probably cause some squinting on your part. Turning off or diming overhead lights will help reduce annoying screen glare. Always adjust the brightness and contrast settings on your monitor. Lastly, make sure you can read what’s on your screen easily. Keep in mind your monitor should sit at an arm’s length from your seat. Adjust your preferences so text appears large enough that you don’t have to lean in or squint to read the text on your screen. You can always employ the Ctrl++ or Ctrl+- shortcuts to enlarge or reduce the size of what appears on your screen in a browser.
Gunnar/Computer Glasses
Gunnar or computer glasses are special purpose eye wear meant to optimize your eyesight when you’re looking at any digital screen like your computer, phone or television. The lenses are made with special anti-reflective coasting to reduce screen glare and come with a yellow tint to the lenses to increase contrast and readability. When it comes to anti-reflective coating, the newer the better. This special coating has been on the market for a while now but reports of peeling and smudging on older models can cause more problems than they solve. Because everyone’s vision is different, Gunnar glasses may or may not be the solution you were hoping for. Experts recommend using computer glasses as a last-ditch effort for reducing your eye strain after changing environmental and work habit related issues first.
Blinking and Eye Drops
Did you know your blink rate is reduced 2-3 times when you’re working at your computer? Making a conscious effort to blink more while at your screen can help keep your eyes lubricated and happy. Using artificial tears can help keep your eyes moist if you need a little more help.
In the end, eye strain is an incredibly common issue, but it doesn’t have to be. Simply getting in the habit of taking more breaks from the screen and optimizing your workstation can have a big effect on your vision and your morale. If you can get away from the screen, do it! Reducing your screen time is a surefire way to give your eyes a rest and improve your quality of life.
Article courtesy of EveronIT.com