Spending many hours in front of a screen can have consequences ranging from social distancing to vision problems. Irritation, redness of the eyes, blurred vision, and even headaches are some of the symptoms caused by the misuse of electronic devices. Fortunately, by practicing good hygiene, we can avoid, prevent, or reduce vision problems while working remotely.
Remote Work And Use Of Screens
Remote work involves spending a lot of hours in front of the screen of a digital device. Almost all tasks that a person needs to perform remotely require a computer or smartphone. The problems can be further exacerbated when you consider the fact that remote workers spend at least 4 hours longer in front of a screen than those who work in the office.
After work, people use electronic devices as a means of leisure, be it TVs, tablets, computers, or phones. This means that a remote worker can spend 12 to 16 hours a day in front of screens. Currently, distance learning has also become widespread, which further increases this time.
How To Avoid Or Reduce Vision Problems?
We do not suggest that you should stop using your computer or stop working. But there are other things you can do to prevent or reduce the effects of screen misuse and screen time abuse.
1. Sufficient Lighting
One of the first causes of vision problems is insufficient lighting. There are three factors to consider: type of light, intensity, and position. It is desirable that the lighting be natural and plentiful, but not excessive. If necessary, use curtains or blinds to control the light in the workplace. If natural light is not enough, you can add artificial light but remember moderation.
2. Avoid Bad Habits
When working remotely, harmful products such as alcohol and cigarettes are easily accessible. As a result, many people who have an alcohol addiction, grab their bottles while working at the computer. However, drinking such beverages frequently can weaken eyes muscles, lead to loss of color vision, and even permanent vision loss.
Thus, quit the consumption of alcohol if you want to restore your eyes’ health and overall health. If you have no clue how to get professional help to get rid of addiction, you can contact addiction hotline numbers. The trained staff there will guide you on how to get addiction treatment and get sober.
3. Blink More
Despite being focused on the task at hand, we must remember to blink frequently. Try to do it on purpose. It will help you improve your vision even when you work at the computer the whole day. You can also try other exercises to help your eyes relax and feel better. Also, remember to take a few minutes’ breaks from screens.
4. Take Rest
You must rest your eyes during and after work. During sleep, your eyes are closed the longest, protecting and lubricating the surface of the eye. Thus, a night’s sleep of 7 to 8 hours will improve your vision. Do not give away this important time to your mobile phone as getting proper is equally important for your health.
5. Products For Vision
If you have to spend long hours in front of the screen, but you don’t want to have vision problems due to remote work, include foods that are beneficial to your eyes health. For example, foods that contain Omega fatty acids are extremely effective and helpful for maintaining eyes health. You can also add other fruits and vegetables that will improve your vision.
6. Increase The Font
If the font size of the text you see on the screen is very small, it will cause visual problems during long-distance work. This happens because you will have to make more effort when focusing. Thus, it is important to adjust the font size to be more readable. You will do a great favor to yourself by making this minor change.
7. Rest Your Eyes
From time to time, look away from the screen and focus on another object for 15-20 seconds. It is better if it is at a distance of more than 6 meters. You must repeat this activity every 20 minutes. Also, remember to take a 15-minute break every 2 hours of work.
8. Maintain Good Distance
There must be at least 60 centimeters between the eyes and the monitor. People who work with desktop computers are better at keeping this distance due to the design of office furniture. But those who use tablets or phones tend to get too close to the screen.
9. Cleanliness Of Glasses
Clean your glasses regularly. This applies to both screen glasses and regular glasses if you use them. Also, don’t forget to wipe your monitor screen. It will help to make everything more clear and avoid blurry vision. Also if you strain your eyes too much, wash them with cold water.
10. Humidification And Ventilation
Do not allow the air conditioner, fan, or heater to come into direct contact with your face. If you have to work in conditions that cause dry eyes, use artificial tears. Such a product will artificially wet your eyes and keep them healthy to work perfectly well. Also, blink properly to avoid dry eyes and other eye problems.
11. Reduce Contact Lens Use Time
If you prefer contact lenses, it is better to use them in other circumstances, such as while walking or playing sports. Ordinary goggles are better suited for telecommuting as they protect the eyes better.
12. Ophthalmic Examination
If you wear glasses, go for an eye test. If you don’t wear them, but spend a lot of time at the computer, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist to rule out eye diseases. The ophthalmologist will advise you and suggest preventive measures to avoid vision problems when working remotely.
Now, if you are used to a new lifestyle and working from home, you can also instill good habits and maintain good eye hygiene.