How can I protect my eyes while using my computer?

Spending a lot of time at your computer may cause eye strain and dry eye, although it won't damage your eyes. Many of the same steps used to minimize eyestrain from watching TV will also help protect your eyes when you're using a computer. You may need to get proper eyeglasses to make sure you can read the screen easily without being too close or too far away. If your eyes bother you when you are working at a computer, consult your eye care professional, at Triangle Eye Care, to find out whether you have the right prescription for your glasses. You will also help easy eyestrain by taking regular rest breaks. Try to blink often to keep your eyes from drying out.

IIn addition, you can adjust your workstation as follows:

• Sit about 20 inches from the computer monitor, with the top of the screen at or below eye level.

• Use a monitor that tilts or swivels and has controls for contrast and brightness.

• Use an adjustable chair.

• Place working documents on a document holder so you don't have to keep looking back and forth.

• To eliminate reflections or glare, adjust your office lighting or use a hood or
  micromesh filter for the computer screen.