Now that we’re having more daily Zoom and Microsoft Teams meetings with our colleagues than in-person meetings, we have all seen a significant increase in our screen times. This also means you might be looking for tips on how to avoid computer eye strain while working from home. We’ve got the answers you need!
What happens when we’re looking at a screen all day
Did you know that spending too much time in front of your screen leads to computer vision syndrome? Yes, it’s an actual syndrome! And it leads to temporary but uncomfortable symptoms including:
- Blurred vision
- Dry eyes
- Headaches
- Neck and Shoulder Pain
- Eye Twitching
- Red Eyes
But don’t get it twisted. Just because it’s called “computer vision syndrome” doesn’t mean you only get these symptoms from a computer screen. You can experience this syndrome from your smartphone and TV screen too!
Discover: What is covered in health insurance?
How to avoid computer eye strain while working from home
1. Change up your lighting
The lighting in your workspace is everything. If your main lighting source is too dim or even too bright, it can increase the amount of strain put on your eyes.
Remember that your screen brightness should be bright enough that you don’t have to squint, but make sure that it also isn’t too bright that your screen is now fully illuminated. It’s all about finding a balance that ultimately reduces any glare.
2. Blink more
It sounds incredibly simple – and it is. Did you know that, while blinking may be an involuntary action, when we are in front of a screen for an extended period of time, it takes more effort to blink?
So, the likelihood of you blinking enough whilst reading this very blog is rather unlikely. Get blinking, okay? We don’t mind waiting. In fact, those few blinks that you just did helped produce moisture for your eyes which is an essential component in thorough eye care. This will help reduce dryness and discomfort of the eyes.
3. Take a break
You may think that you’re under extreme strain with your current workload – but so are your eyes. So, while we may not be able to tell you to spend the day away from technology, we do encourage you to take a few minutes to allow your eyes to recover.
Get up and stretch your legs, admire the growing leaves outside through the window or simply grab a glass of water. The more time you give your eyes to rest, the better you’ll instantly feel.
Related: 5 Ways to Avoid Burnout
4. Fix your posture
You may not know it, but your eyes and posture are connected. Maintaining a proper sitting position will become your best line of defence when it comes to eye strain.
When you sit down at your desk to begin your workday, keep your feet flat on the ground. Instead of resting your wrist on the keyboard, keep them slightly elevated. Make sure that your screen is positioned just below your natural line of sight.
5. Go for a comprehensive eye exam
This is one of the most important actions when it comes to treating or preventing strained vision. When visiting your optometrist, make sure to explain your working habits and elaborate on the length of time and the frequency that you use technological devices!
Worried about the price tag associated with respected local optometrists? Well, then this next paragraph is definitely for you!
You need our exclusive Onecard
Now we don’t mean to sound self-absorbed here, but this truly is one of the greatest insurance creations. By signing up for Oneplan Health Insurance, you are given a personalised Onecard where you can claim for day-to-day stuff like optometrist visits) BEFORE you even get to your appointment! We’ll load the funds you need onto your Onecard in less than a minute, so you can swipe it after your appointment like you would a debit card… it’s really that easy!
So, if you’re ready to start making your eye health a priority, you can click here for an online quote.
Just remember that once you’re done for the day, truly unplug. Skip out on the social media and series binge. Your eyes will be forever grateful!
Your Health Insurance Family,
Oneplan
