1) REDUCE GLARE -- Extraneous light, or glare, is the greatest source of eyestrain for computer users. No matter where your computer is relative to a window, adjustable shades, curtains or blinds should be used to effectively control light levels throughout the day. Avoid facing an unshaded window since the difference in brightness between the screen and the area behind it may cause eye stress and discomfort. Consider using an anti-glare screen to reduce reflections.

2) CHECK YOUR CONTACTS -- When working at a computer, people spend a lot of time concentrating and blink less frequently -- about three times less than normally, according to studies. "Computer work is particularly stressful for contact lens wearers," says Dr. Anshel. "Long non-blinking phases may cause the surface of contact lenses to dry out, which can lead to discomfort and a loss of visual clarity." He recommends talking to an eye care professional about Acuvue OASYS® with HYDRACLEARTM Plus. In a clinical study with 335 contact lens wearers, 9 in 10 (89 percent) patients wearing ACUVUE OASYS said that their eyes felt comfortable, even when watching TV or using a computer for a long time.

3)ADJUST YOUR MONITOR -- Ideal monitor placement is dependent on several factors, including an individual's physical make-up and visual capabilities, work tasks, and other workstation design elements. For maximum eye comfort, Dr. Anshel recommends placing the center of the screen five to nine inches below your horizontal line of sight. "You should be looking just over the top of the monitor in your straight-ahead gaze," he says.

4)TAKE A BREAK -- "Our eyes were not made to see at a close distance for hours at a time without a break," says Dr. Anshel. A preventive approach to reducing visual stress includes occasionally looking away from the screen of your computer, PDA, or portable game player. Dr. Anshel recommends the 20/20/20 rule. "Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes. Focus your eyes on points at least 20 feet from your terminal. Keep your eyes moving while looking at objects at various distances," he says.

5) CONSULT YOUR EYE CARE PROFESSIONAL -- The American Optometric
Association highly suggests yearly eye exams to ensure ocular health. For individuals whose jobs may require extensive time in front of a monitor, Dr. Anshel suggests a comprehensive eye examination soon after beginning computer work and periodically thereafter. "If, at any time, you experience any vision problems or discomfort, talk to your eye care professional," he adds.

Don't forget to take care of your eyes.

Source: PR News Wire