With so many of us using computers at work, computer eye strain has become a major job-related complaint. Studies show that eye strain and other bothersome visual symptoms occur in 50 to 90 percent of computer workers. These problems can range from physical fatigue, decreased productivity and increased numbers of work errors, to minor annoyances like eye twitching and red eyes.
Here are some tips and techniques that I gathered for you to minimize, relax, refresh and reduce eye strain.
Blink!
The average human being blinks 20 times a minute – but only 7 times a minute when using a computer. The longer the eye remains open between blinks, the more likely the cornea is to dehydrate, burn or ache. Blink often to keep the eyes moist. It washes your eyes in naturally therapeutic tears.
Eye Massage
To reduce eye strain, gently massage your eyelids daily. It will improve blood circulation to the eyes and also relax the muscles around your eyes. At the same time, it will stimulate the tear glands, which will help prevent dry eyes.
- Use your fingers to gently massage your eyelids and muscles above the eyebrows for about 10 to 20 seconds.
- Gently massage your lower eyelid against the lower bone for about 10 to 20 seconds.
- Massage the temple and upper cheek bones, also.
- Do this 1 or 2 times daily.
Focus at nose then into the distance
This exercise is typically found in most eyestrain websites. This is not really helpful unless you’ve done the earlier ones. However, once eye muscles have been somewhat loosened, this will help.
Try Palming
“Palm” your eyes by covering them with the palms of your hands, blocking out the light completely for 1 to 3 minutes several times a day. Palming is one of the most relaxing things you can do for your eyes.
Adjust your computer display settings.
Adjusting the display settings of your computer can help reduce eye strain and fatigue. Generally, these adjustments are beneficial
Take significant quantities of Vitamin D
I believe vitamin D deficiency might have something to do with this, as well. Most people with dark skin are vulnerable to Vitamin D deficiency since they work indoors. Vitamin D is critically connected with muscle performance.
Natural Home Remedies
- This might sound funny, but put potato slices on your closed eyes for about 20 minutes. If you eyes are burning, itchy and irritated, this old homemade remedy just might help you. Raw potato has drying and disinfectant properties, as well as being a rich source of vitamin C.
- Rose water is a relaxer and can be used as eye drops for soothing effect in tired and fatigued eyes. Wash and flush your eyes in cool tap water.