Doctor Lists Tips For Protecting Your Eyes During Work From Home

World Sight Day 2024: Maintaining eye health is crucial, particularly for work-from-home professionals who face prolonged screen exposure. Staring at computers, smartphones and tablets can lead to digital eye strain, dryness and increased risk of myopia. Prolonged screen time can cause headaches blurred vision and eye fatigue. Thus, it becomes important to protect the vision. By taking proactive steps, professionals can safeguard their eye health and maintain productivity.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Arvind Kumar, Senior Consultant- Ophthalmology, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad listed out some effective tips that may help to protect your eyes during work from home.

Tips To Protect Your Eyes

Follow 20-20 rules

After Every 20 minutes, make it a habit to look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds like a tree outside the window or a picture on the far wall for 20 seconds. This simple break can alleviate eye tension, reduce eye fatigue and prevent digital eye strain.

Adjust Screen Settings

Ensure that your screen brightness corresponds to the light in your surroundings. Too bright or too dark screens can cause eye discomfort.

Invest in Anti-Glare Solutions

An anti-glare screen for your monitor or anti-glare lenses for your glasses can help combat this issue, making screen time more comfortable. Computer users might consider a matte screen protector which reduces reflections.

Optimise Workspace Lighting

Avoid working under direct overhead fluorescent lights if possible. Use floor lamps or desk lamps with soft light bulbs.

Blink More Often

Frequent blinking helps to reduce dryness and itchiness by moistening the eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more, especially when engrossed in work place.

Prioritise Ergonomic Workspace Design

Position your computer screen about an arm’s length away and ensure it’s at eye level or slightly below.

Use Protective Eyewear

If your work involves potential eye hazards like chemicals, flying debris or harmful radiation, always wear protective eyewear. In settings with bright lights or lasers, use eyewear with the appropriate protective tint.

Regular Eye Checkup

A yearly check can detect latent issues like the onset of computer vision syndrome or the need to update prescription glasses.

Mind Air Quality

Air conditioning, fans or heaters can dry out your eyes. Ensure good air circulation in your workspace, and if needed, use a humidifier or artificial tears to keep your eyes moistened.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent your eyes from getting dry and irritated.

Avoid Direct Sun Exposure

When outdoors, especially during peak sun hours, wear sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of both UV-A and UV-B radiation.

Ways to maintain eye health during work from home (Image Credits: Canva)

Practice Good Hygiene

Always wash your hands before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses.

Use Anti-reflective Lenses

If you wear glasses, get lenses with an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare from screens and light sources.

Stay Aware of Surroundings

If you’re involved in sports or certain physical activities, always be aware of your surroundings to prevent potential eye injuries. For example, be cautious of stray balls, flying debris, or errant swings.

Store Chemicals Safely

Ensure household or workplace chemicals are securely stored. When using them, read labels, ensure proper ventilation, and always use them in a way that prevents splashing or vapour exposure to the eyes.

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