We do not usually bother with our eyes until they become problematic to us, when we see a slight burn after a long day in front of the computer or an itch that is too persistent, or when we feel something like a dryness of eyes as though we are looking against the wind. It can be a pain, and it is a good thing that they need some care.

With the screens, intense lights, and a thousand other environmental stimuli out there, our eyes take a beating in the course of the day. The good news? It is not necessary that you live in a state of discomfort. With slight modifications, and an understanding of when to seek medical advice, you can save your sight and feel much better.

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health.

Know What’s Causing the Problem

Discomfort of the eye is something that does not just pop up. More frequently, it is the consequence of minor, repetitive routines or elements that accumulate in the course of time. Spending lots of time staring at the screens, being under harsh lighting, allergies, dry air, and even just the lack of breaks can all contribute.

The everyday lifestyle and environment are more significant than you can imagine. You spend a lot of time in the grocery stores and do not get much light? You sit next to a window so the sun hits your screen head-on? Going in and out of the air-conditioned house to the heat? All these can put pressure on your eyes, and you may not realize it.

Learn to observe shapes. Are your eyes rough and gritty after a long workday? In spring, do they increase watering when there is high pollen? Do you get headaches at night when you read? Being aware of the situations and locations in which the symptoms worsen is the first step to solving the issue.

Everyday Fixes That Actually Work

Blink More Often (Seriously)

When we stare at a phone or a computer, we blink much less, sometimes only a fraction of the usual amount of time. This will indicate that your eyes are not getting the lubrication they deserve, thereby becoming dry and irritated.

Take the effort to blink completely and regularly, particularly when working on long projects. You can even condition yourself to do this by associating blinks with an action you do often such as clicking send on an email or the end of a paragraph. It may seem like a stupid thing but your eyes will appreciate it.

Check Your Lighting

Excessive glowing or shadows may result in straining of the eyes, migraines, and tiredness. As far as possible, place your screen in such a way that windows are not in front or behind you.

Adjust your screen brightness in a way it is near the light that is surrounding you. When your monitor is too bright compared to your surroundings, you have to put the work of adjusting on your eyes, and this can be tiring.

The 20-20-20 Rule

Check your eyes at least every 20 minutes, looking at something that is 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This lets your eyes take a break from eye focusing.

No manual or flashy reminder app is necessary; you just add it to a habit that you have, such as drinking water, stretching your arms, or checking the outside of your window. It becomes natural to them after some time to.

Keep Your Eyes Moist

Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops will do magic when it comes to dry eyes and it would be even more effective when they do not contain preservatives. Use them when you need it, you do not have to wait until it feels like your eyes are sandpaper.

And also, dehydration is a factor. When your entire body is poorly hydrated, it will be so in the eyes too. Keep a water bottle around and drink all day.

Wear Sunglasses Year-Round

UV rays also do not go on vacation in winter. Use sunglasses that block UVA and UVB radiation. They can help prevent the long-term damage and can also prevent squinting, which can result in a tension headache.

Bonus: they also block wind and other irritants, etc.

Give Them Actual Rest

Rest is not only about having a good night rest (and this is indeed significant). You also have to take mini-breaks during the day with your eyes. Take a total break of the screen, even though it may be a few minutes or so, and allow your eyes to rest on objects at various distances.

They can also induce some strain and dryness after a lot of focus, so closing them temporarily can help mitigate.

When to See a Doctor

Similar to any body part, there are some warning signs that one should never ignore. Book an appointment if you feel affected.

• Sudden changes in the picture of vision
• Continuous eye pain and QB
• Frequent headaches that appear to be related to the sighting of things
• Photophobia
• Blurred eyesight or double vision