Digital Eye Strain: 6 Fixes for Screen-Tired Eyes (AAO, OSHA)
Screen time does not permanently harm your eyes, the AAO says. It can still make them sore. Here is what helps.
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The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) says long screen sessions will not permanently damage your eyes. They can still leave your eyes blurry, achy, dry or stinging. These six fixes come from the AAO and OSHA.
1. Blink more
The AAO says we blink about 15 times a minute normally and only 5 to 7 times a minute on screens. Blinking keeps the eye surface moist.
2. Use artificial tears and humid air
The AAO suggests artificial tears when your eyes feel dry, and a humidifier in a dry, warm room.
3. Look up and away
Look at something in the distance now and then. OSHA gives the example of a clock on a wall 20 feet away. It also suggests a five-minute break from the computer every hour.
4. Fix brightness and contrast
The AAO says a screen brighter than the room makes your eyes work harder. Match the brightness to the room and try more contrast.
5. Set the distance and height
OSHA says 20 to 40 in from eye to screen, with the top of the screen at or below eye level. See our monitor height and distance guide. A monitor arm makes small changes easy.
6. Ask about computer glasses
The AAO says prescription computer glasses focus at screen distance, about 20 to 26 in. They are not the same as blue light blocking glasses.
See an eye doctor if symptoms continue.
Frequently asked questions
Do screens damage your eyes?
The American Academy of Ophthalmology says looking at screens for long periods will not permanently damage your eyes, though it can cause discomfort.
Why do my eyes get dry at the computer?
The AAO says people blink about 15 times a minute normally but only 5 to 7 times a minute on screens.
Do blue light glasses help?
The AAO says computer glasses for eye strain are not the same as blue light blocking glasses.
