Do your eyes feel tired, dry, or strained after a long day at work? Whether you’re in an office, working remotely, or on the go, your vision plays a crucial role in productivity and comfort. Poor lighting, prolonged screen time, and incorrect workstation setups can lead to digital eye strain, headaches, and blurry vision.
In recognition of Workplace Eye Wellness Month, Bayview Optometrics is sharing essential tips to protect your eyes and maintain healthy vision at work. Small adjustments to your daily routine can make a big difference in reducing discomfort and improving focus.
Common Causes of Workplace Eye Strain
Many workplace environments contribute to eye discomfort, but understanding the root causes can help you take proactive steps to prevent it.
1. Digital Eye Strain
Spending hours staring at a computer screen or mobile device can cause:
- Blurry vision
- Headaches
- Eye fatigue
- Difficulty focusing
2. Dry Eyes
Extended screen use reduces blinking, leading to dryness and irritation. Office air conditioning, heating systems, and lack of humidity can worsen symptoms.
3. Harsh or Inadequate Lighting
Bright fluorescent lights, glare from windows, or dim lighting can strain your eyes, making it harder to focus and increasing fatigue.
4. Poor Monitor Positioning
A screen that is too high, too low, or too close forces your eyes to work harder, causing strain and discomfort.
How to Keep Your Eyes Healthy at Work
Making small changes to your work environment and habits can significantly reduce eye strain and improve comfort.
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
To prevent digital eye strain, every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps relax your eye muscles and reduce fatigue.
2. Optimize Your Screen Settings
- Reduce screen brightness to match the surrounding light.
- Increase text size to avoid squinting.
- Use blue light filters to reduce eye strain.
3. Position Your Monitor Correctly
- Keep your screen about an arm’s length away (20–24 inches).
- Position the top of the screen at or just below eye level.
- Tilt your screen slightly to reduce glare.
4. Reduce Glare & Improve Lighting
- Use anti-glare screen protectors on monitors.
- Adjust window blinds to control natural light.
- Position your computer screen perpendicular to windows to avoid direct glare.
5. Prevent Dry Eyes
- Blink more often to keep your eyes moist.
- Use artificial tears if your eyes feel dry.
- Stay hydrated to support natural tear production.
6. Improve Office Lighting
- Avoid harsh overhead lights—use softer, indirect lighting when possible.
- Position your computer screen away from direct light sources.
- Use desk lamps with adjustable brightness.
7. Wear Proper Eyewear
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure your prescription is up to date. Consider blue light-blocking lenses or anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare and strain.
Schedule an Eye Exam at Bayview Optometrics
Your eyes work hard throughout the day, and taking steps to protect them can prevent long-term strain and discomfort. Regular eye exams are essential for detecting vision problems early and ensuring your prescription is suited for your work environment.
At Bayview Optometrics, we offer expert eye care to help you maintain healthy vision and prevent workplace-related eye strain. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam and protect your vision.