How to Avoid Getting Dry Eyes from the Computer

People are staring at computer screens more and more. This gives you dry eyes, but luckily, the problem is only short-term and can be avoided in the first place.

Steps

1. Blink. People blink at least half as much as normal when staring at the computer screen, because people usually squint and your eyes are not made for looking at monitors. It may be hard to remember to do this constantly, so every now and then you can close your eyes for a few seconds.

2. 10-10-10. Every 10 minutes, look at an object 10 feet away for to get them adjusted to long-distance too, so you are ready when you get off the computer.

3. Adjust the screen settings. You will find that if you make your screen a bit more dull, it is actually easier to read. The screen should be just as bright as your surroundings, and should not appear to be a glowing box nor pitch black object. You will find that you can actually get used to a brightness of 0. Contrast should usually be in the level of the 80s, but they are different for different screens. Contrast is the strength of the colors compared next to each other.

4. Back up the screen, but not so much that you have to strain to read the text. 16-24 inches is a good distance, depending on your eyesight and the size of the screen. Consider changing the settings to show larger text on every site accessed on your browser.

5. Use the computer less and make your time count. Learn to type faster so that you can type up an email faster and be able to get off faster. It is also very efficient to print up long pages that you would have to read on the computer. If you are really sensitive, consider getting a job that doesn't require computer use on a daily basis.

Tips

* Ignore the myth about looking at computer screens making you nearsighted because of the pixels. Looking at computer screens is just like reading a book.

* Before and after long periods of time with computer use, wash your eyes or take a shower.

* Some of this information can also apply to other types of screens, such as that of TVs, handheld games and cell phones.

* Stay hydrated so you are sure to have enough tears to make.

Warnings

* Too much time on the computer can also cause fatigue. Take breaks often.

* Artificial tear drops can hurt you in the long run by making you produce less tears.

* Your eyes can also become bloodshot from being dry.