In today’s world, we spend long hours in front of the computer and other digital gadgets. Although that doesn’t cause permanent damage to the eyes, they can certainly strain them creating vision problems sooner or later. What starts out as small issues may flare up into bigger vision problems later. If you have dry eyes, headaches or vision problems often at work, it’s time you took a good look at your eyes and consider ways to protect them. Learn about common workplace eye health issues and protect your eyes from them, to begin with.
Lubricate Dry Eyes
Blinking is nature’s water of keeping your eyes hydrated. The average person is said to blink up to 18 times a minute but when looking at the computer, that reduces to less than half that number. It’s no surprise that dry eyes are the result. Don’t forget to blink when you’re engrossed in your digital devices. If they feel irritable and dry, try tearing up artificially or simply lubricate them with eye drops. If your eyes itch as well, stay away from the eyedrops and see an eye doctor right away; you may have an eye infection.
Refresh Tired Eyes
Your posture and position before the computer are very important to keep your eyes healthy. Sit comfortably at least 25 inches away from the screen. Adjust it so that your eyes fall on it a little below eye level. The room must be well lit and the screen lighting should not be too bright or dim.
- Use anti-glare film over the screen or turn down the glare.
- After every hour or so, get up and walk around to give your eyes a break.
- Remember the 20/20/20 rule? Look away from the screen every 20 minutes; stare at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This goes a long way in refreshing your eyes.
- Every year, don’t miss a visit your eye care provider to update your prescriptions.
- Eat food that nourishes your eyes; sleep well to give them sufficient rest.
Keep An Eye on Your Diet
The food on your plate makes a big difference in eye health. A well-balanced diet that’s good for your eyes is one that is rich in vitamins A, E and C. Treat yourself to omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish like salmon and tuna. Have liberal helpings of green, leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale. Eggs, beans, nuts, lentils, legumes, citrus fruits such as oranges and vitamin A-rich choices, such as carrots, pumpkins, and watermelons, keep your eyes invigorated.
Keep an eye on your weight too. A healthy weight keeps off type 2 diabetes and obesity, both of which can affect your eyes. Stay away from smoking. It is said to increase the chances of optic nerve damage, macular degeneration, and cataracts
UV Protected Sunglasses
Sunglasses powered with UV ray protection go a long way in protecting your eyes. Every time you step out of your office, make sure you have a good pair of sunglasses that block out 99 to 100% UV rays. Wraparound sunglasses keep UV rays off from the sides, while polarized glasses are a great choice for driving. Sunglasses also keep off glare from the snow, dust, grime, and bugs.
At JC Optical & Hearing, we provide you with high-quality eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses that are guaranteed to help enhance eye health and reduce strain. Book your next eye appointment with our experts today for a check-up and high-quality sunglasses.