How to Recognize and Manage Eye Strain in the Workplace

In today’s modern workplace, long hours in front of digital screens have become the norm. Whether you're working at a computer, attending virtual meetings, or checking emails on your phone, this constant screen exposure can take a toll on your eyes. Many employees experience discomfort without realizing it's due to digital eye strain. Understanding the warning signs and knowing how to manage them can help protect your vision and improve your overall work performance.
 

What Causes Eye Strain at Work

Several workplace factors can contribute to eye strain, with prolonged screen time being one of the most common. Improper lighting (whether too bright or too dim) can force your eyes to work harder than necessary. Poor posture or an incorrectly positioned screen may also strain your neck and eyes, while uncorrected vision problems can further exacerbate the issue.
 

Additionally, failing to take regular breaks throughout the day limits your eyes’ ability to rest and recover. Even something as simple as screen glare or a poorly positioned monitor can lead to noticeable discomfort over time.
 

Recognizing the Signs of Eye Strain

Eye strain can show up in different ways, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Dry or watery eyes

• Blurry vision

• Difficulty focusing

• Headaches

• Neck and shoulder pain

• Increased sensitivity to light
 

If you notice these symptoms, especially during or after work hours, it's possible your eyes are overworked.
 

How to Prevent and Manage Eye Strain

There are several strategies you can adopt to ease and prevent eye strain:

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This simple habit gives your eye muscles a chance to relax.

• Adjust Your Screen Setup: Position your screen about an arm’s length away, with the top of the screen at or just below eye level. Reduce screen glare by adjusting your lighting or using an anti-glare screen filter.

• Use Proper Lighting: Avoid working under overly bright lights or in complete darkness. Natural lighting is best, but if that's not an option, use indirect light sources to minimize strain.
 

When to See a Doctor

If you’re experiencing persistent eye strain that doesn’t improve with breaks or adjustments to your workspace, it may be time to see an eye doctor. Symptoms like blurred vision, frequent headaches, dry eyes, or difficulty focusing could indicate an underlying vision issue that needs professional attention.
 

Even if your symptoms seem minor, a comprehensive eye exam can help detect problems early and ensure your eyes are properly supported for your work environment. Regular check-ups are especially important if you rely heavily on screens or haven’t had an eye exam in over a year.
 

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

Eye strain doesn’t have to be a part of your daily work routine. With the right habits and awareness, you can protect your eyes and improve your comfort and productivity throughout the day.

Schedule your next eye exam at Berris Optical to ensure your eyes are functioning at their best in any work environment. Visit our office in Rocky River, Ohio, or call (440) 571-7100 to book an appointment today.