Do your eyes hurt after spending significant time reading, playing video games, driving, or staring at a screen? These visually intense activities can cause uncomfortable symptoms like headaches and blurry vision, as well as light sensitivity, neck and shoulder pain, trouble concentrating, and burning or itchy eyes.

Relax Your Eyes with These Supportive Techniques

The Clock Exercise

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

The 20-20-20 Rule

The 20-20-20 rule helps you avoid dry eyes and eye strain. After about 20 minutes of screen time or close-up work, focus on an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives the eyes a much-needed rest and helps them relax. Free apps are available that provide pop-up reminders when it's time to shift your gaze.

Screen Ergonomics

Place computer monitors 20 to 28 inches from your eyes, with the top of the screen at or just below eye level. Glare filters can reduce the amount of glare produced by digital devices. Your chair should be situated 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, it may be time to visit Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio. Call (937) 228-2020 to schedule a convenient appointment.