Computer Addict? Read this…your eyes will thank you!

It's becoming more and more obvious as further studies are conducted, that your Mom was on to something when she said, "Don't sit so close to the TV!". Turns, out tv and computer screens really are straining the eyes of the new modern-age tech heads. But don't throw out your $2000 laptop just yet! There are a number of things that you can do to combat your macular degeneration.

First, and most obvious, you should take a break every 30-60 minutes. Doesn't mean you have to completely jar your concentration and start doing jumping jacks in your office, but just take about 30 seconds to focus on something across the room or something farther away if you have a window. This will keep your eyes from constantly straining on such a close object (your computer screen), and allow them to relax and adjust to more varied vision distances. These short breaks will also help the rest of your body quickly recharge and keep you more alert to get back to your computer work (you are doing work right? not spending 8 hours playing solitaire…).

Aside from the physical adjustments above, you can also make some technical adjustments to help ease your sore eyes (and back and neck for that matter, you're leaning over and slouching right now reading this article aren't you!). You should always sit up straight and adjust your chair and/or computer screen, so that you are looking down slightly (about 10-20 degrees).

Finally, make sure the lighting in your room and on your computer screen is ideal. You don't want any glares on the screen from the sun or from bright lights in the room. Either close the blinds, move the lights, or invest in an anti-glare computer screen cover. Once you deal with the glare, adjust the contrast/dimming on your screen so that it's not so bright it's giving you a tan! but not so dim that you have to strain even more to see. The optimal setting is usually about 5-10% below the factory default.

Follow these steps, and you should keep your baby blues (or greens or browns) healthy and happy.

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