Tips to Relax Your Eyes

Do your eyes hurt after spending a significant amount of time reading, playing video games, driving, or staring at a screen? These visually intense activities can sometimes be hard on the eyes, causing uncomfortable symptoms like headaches and blurry vision. Other symptoms of eye strain include light sensitivity, neck and shoulder pain, trouble concentrating, and burning or itchy eyes.

Relax Your Eyes with These Techniques

The Clock Exercise

The clock exercise relieves strain on overworked eye muscles. Imagine a large analog clock a few feet in front of you. Keep your head still and move your eyes to the imaginary 9, then to the 3. Keep moving your eyes to opposite pairs on the clock — 10/4, 11/5, 12/6, and so on. Hold your gaze for a second or two on each number. Continue for 4-5 minutes.

The 20-20-20 Rule

The 20-20-20 rule helps you avoid dry eyes and eye strain by giving your eyes frequent breaks. After about 20 minutes of screen time or close-up work, focus on an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. There are also free apps available that provide pop-up reminders when it's time to shift your gaze.

Screen Ergonomics

The American Optometric Association recommends placing computer monitors 20 to 28 inches away from your eyes, with the top of the screen at eye level or right below. Glare filters can reduce the amount of glare produced by digital devices. Ensure your chair is positioned so that your feet are flat on the floor.

Optimize Your Eyewear

Since regular prescription lenses may not adequately meet your visual needs for lengthy computer use, you may benefit from wearing computer glasses. These prescription glasses are customized to your needs and also reduce glare and block blue light.

You don't have to live with the discomforts of eye strain. If symptoms persist, contact St. Clairsville Eyecare in St. Clairsville to get the relief you seek. Call (740) 695-0444.