Dry Eye and Computers
Ways to Mitigate the Impact of Computer Screens on our Eyes
The prevalence of computers in the workplace has been steadily on the rise for the last twenty years. Millions of individuals spend the majority of their work day staring in the screen of their desktop computers and laptops. Recent studies have shown that prolonged exposure to bright artificial screens adversely affects blink rate and contributes to eye dryness. In severe cases this can be known as Computer Vision Syndrome or Digital Eye Strain. This may sound familiar to the many of us that find ourselves blinking excessively throughout the work day and rubbing dry, itchy eyes. Fortunately, there are some simple solutions to help you mitigate the effects of prolonged exposure.
What Causes Digital Eye Strain?
The average American worker spends 7 hours a day on a computer. Reading text on a computer is more difficult than reading printed text, causing the eyes to work harder and strain. Letters on the computer screen are often less defined and the bright digital screens provide less contrast that allows our eyes to focus. Any uncorrected vision problems, such as nearsightedness or astigmatism can exacerbate the effects.
Reposition Your Screen for Natural Hydration
Did you know you can reduce painful dry eye symptoms simply by positioning the screen of your computer just below eye level? By posturing your computer in this way you allow your eyes to naturally close just slightly while you’re viewing the screen. This helps reduce your tear evaporation rate, keeping eyes naturally hydrated for longer periods of time and helping to maintain a healthy blink rate. The American Optometric Association recommends placing your computer monitor approximately 15-20 degrees below your eyes.
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
The American Optometric Association recommends following the 20-20-20 rule throughout the work day to reduce Digital Eye Strain. Every 20 minutes, take a break for 20 seconds, and look at something 20 feet away. Why? It takes 20 seconds for the eyes to fully relax. By taking your attention away from your close digital screen and focusing for 20 seconds on an object further away you allow the eyes to reestablish a naturally healthy blink rate and reduce tear evaporation.
Use a Warm Eye Compress
Try incorporating a product like the Thermalon Moist Heat Eye Compress into your daily routine to naturally hydrate and moisturize dry eyes. The patented HydroPearls technology absorbs moisture from the air and after just 20-30 seconds in the microwave delivers a deep penetrating moist heat. This moist heat helps stimulate the production of natural oils that stabilize our tear film evaporation rate and keep eyes hydrated throughout the day. Use the Thermalon Moist Heat Eye Compress daily for maximum effectiveness.