Protect Sensitive Eyes: 3 Tips to Prevent Eye Strain

We use our eyes all the time for working, playing, and taking care of our loved ones. Our eyes are very sensitive and can easily become tired, especially in today's digital age. With so much screen time in our lives, it is common to experience digital eye strain, a condition that can cause discomfort and affect your vision.

You may notice that after periods of intense concentration, such as when staring at a phone or computer screen, that your eyes feel irritated. But don't worry, your Kapitbahay Pharmacy has listed simple steps you can take to remedy the situation so that you can continue your daily tasks without any discomfort or irritation.

How long does eye strain last?

Eye strain develops after prolonged periods of activity with eye focus, such as driving, reading, watching TV, or using other digital devices. Causes of eyestrain include long exposure to digital device screens, exposure to glares and bright lights, and exposure to air from a fan or air-conditioning.

Aside from the easily recognizable symptom of red, irritated eyes, some other symptoms of eye strain can include:

• Double or blurred vision
• Mild headaches
• Twitching of the eye or eyelid
• Feeling like you cannot keep your eyes open
• Light sensitivity or struggling to see in dim light

Discomfort from eye strain usually goes away on its own after some lifestyle changes and staying away from irritants. However, if your eye pain symptoms are severe or long-term, it would be best to seek advice from your doctor.

Tips to prevent eye strain

Whether you are a person with eyes sensitive to light or have just been working or studying hard, we’ve listed down three tips that will help you protect your eyes and prevent eye strain:

1. Take screen breaks and adjust your screen settings

One of the easiest ways to prevent eyestrain is to take frequent screen breaks. A common practice is the 20-20-20 rule, where every 20 minutes, you take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. A lot of today’s workforce use computers and phones to work, meaning many are exposed to digital screens all day. Taking these breaks also allow you to stretch your legs and socialize with your coworkers.

Additionally, adjusting your device’s display settings can help reduce fatigue from prolonged screen time. Your settings may be too bright if your device is bright enough to be a light source, yet it may be too dim if your device seems gray or dull.

2. Have adequate lighting

Lighting may also contribute to eyestrain. Depending on the activity, the lighting in the room may be too bright or too dim. For example, when you’re reading a book, ample light should come from behind you so that you can read the words on the page. You may also want to try dimming or turning off some room lights while watching something on TV.

3. Use proper protective eyewear

Remember to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes when driving, playing sports, exercising, and doing other activities under intense sunlight. For those who work with computers all day, consider consulting a doctor regarding computer glasses.

Do you wear prescription eyeglasses? If so, you may be due for a new pair because the grade may have changed. You may also consult your doctor about specialized lenses and other devices to reduce eyestrain.

Helpful products to protect your sensitive eyes

At your Kapitbahay pharmacy, we offer products specifically designed to promote and maintain eye health, including eye drops and supplements.

Our eyes are constantly working hard, allowing you to see and interpret the world around you. From the moment we wake up until we fall asleep at night, our eyes are processing an endless stream of information.

Fortunately, when your eyes get tired, there are several tips and reliable eye care products you can try to soothe the discomfort and keep them healthy. By taking care of your eyes, you can continue to work and do everything you love and maintain your overall health and well-being. — (MyPharma)