13 Work Habits That Promote Eye Health

For many of us, working on our computers for a long time during the day is inevitable. However, this work habit and other poor health choices — like not eating healthy and getting enough sleep — can cause strain and fatigue in your eyes. 

Taking the time to practice proper eye care during your workday helps protect your vision and increases productivity in the workplace. As opticians in Minneapolis, we recommend the following 13 work habits that promote good eye health.

1. Take Regular Breaks

Taking breaks at least every hour is essential for preventing your eyes from becoming strained or exhausted. It helps you focus more and gives your eyes some rest from all the screen work so that they can relax and recharge.

During your break, try to step away from electronic screens and devices for about five minutes, walk around the office, talk to a colleague, take deep breaths and stretch out your body.

2. Adjust Your Monitor Settings

Ensuring your monitor settings are correct helps reduce strain and fatigue in your eyes. To get started, adjust your screen brightness and contrast to suit your needs.

Place the computer screen at least an arm’s length away from you and ensure it’s slightly below eye level. This prevents eye strain caused by looking down too much on bright screens.

3. Wear Computer Glasses

Computer glasses are designed to protect your eyes from blue light emitted by screens. They help block this harmful light, which may cause digital eye strain, blurred vision and headaches.

If battling other symptoms like dry eyes or eye strain, traditional computer glass lenses might not be enough. Contact your eye doctor in Minneapolis, MN, so they can perform an eye exam and give you personalized eye protection.

4. Exercise Your Eyes

Take breaks throughout the day to do different eye exercises, which can help prevent eye strain. Try shifting your gaze from one side of the room to another, focusing on objects that are far away and close up. 

It is recommended to cover your closed eyes with both palms for three minutes and take long deep breaths as part of this exercise so your eyes can recharge.

5. Eat Healthy Foods

A balanced diet consisting of fresh fruits and vegetables can also benefit your eyesight. Foods rich in vitamins A, C and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, tuna and mackerel) are essential for eye health.

6. Avoid Working in Dim Light

Staring at screens in dimly lit rooms can cause our eyes to strain and tire quickly. Ensure your workspace has adequate lighting to help refresh your eyes and allow you to focus better.

When working during the daytime, make sure that the curtains or shades are open so natural light can come inside the room as much as possible.

7. Get Adequate Sleep 

Getting enough sleep is also a major factor in protecting your vision. After a long day of looking at the screens, your eyes need some rest — just like any other part of your body would after being overworked. 

Without adequate rest and sleep, your eyes can’t adequately recharge, leading to further strain and fatigue.

8. Use Eye Drops

If you work in an environment with dry air or suffer from dry eyes, using eye drops can help keep your eyes hydrated and reduce discomfort. There are many types of eye drops available, including artificial tears and lubricating drops, which can be used throughout the day. Make sure to consult your eye doctor for the correct eye drops to use.

9. Invest in Proper Lighting

Proper lighting can make a big difference in reducing eye strain. If possible, use lighting that is adjustable and can be dimmed when necessary. Avoid overhead lighting that creates a glare on your computer screen.

10. Blink Frequently

Blinking is important for maintaining healthy eyes. When you stare at a computer screen for a long time, you may forget to blink, which can cause your eyes to become dry and irritated. Make a conscious effort to blink frequently while working.

11. Practice Proper Ergonomics

Proper ergonomics are a good idea for overall health, including eye health. Ensure that your workspace is set up in a way that promotes good posture and reduces strain on your neck, back and shoulders. This will also help reduce eye strain and fatigue.

12. Limit Screen Time Outside of Work

While it may be impossible to avoid screens during work hours, it’s important to limit screen time outside of work. Follow a schedule for using your phone, watching television and playing video games. Giving your eyes a break from screens can help them rest and recharge.

13. Visit Your Eye Doctor Regularly

Regular eye exams with an eye doctor are crucial for maintaining good eye health and overall well-being. Even if you have perfect vision, eye exams can detect early signs of eye diseases or other conditions that may not have noticeable symptoms. Some eye diseases, such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, can lead to permanent vision loss if not caught and treated early on. 

Your eye doctor can also provide guidance on proper eye care in your workplace and recommend lifestyle changes to promote good eye health. By scheduling regular appointments with an eye doctor, you can help ensure that your eyes are healthy and that any issues are detected and treated early.

Take Good Care of Your Eyes With Downtown Eyes in Minneapolis, MN!

Taking a few minutes to practice any of these good work habits can make all the difference in achieving better eye health. Downtown Eyes in Minneapolis, MN, would be delighted to help you with an eye examination to find proper eye care for your needs. Schedule your appointment by filling out our contact form.