Whether you’ve just started working from home or you’re a long-time remote employee whose favorite coffee shop-turned-office has your order ready when you arrive each day, chances are you’ve struggled with eye strain caused by constant computer use. Symptoms of eye strain include soreness, blurriness, and tiredness of the eyes. as well as, of course, ever-irritating dryness. Luckily, there are some simple changes you can make to help your eyes feel better without sacrificing your workflow in the process.
Blink more often
It seems almost stupidly easy but the simple act of consciously blinking more frequently can make a big difference in your eye health—and your comfort. Studies show that prolonged use of computers and other screens can cause a decreased blink rate, which can leave eyes extra dry. It will take some effort to create the habit, but it can be worth it to relieve the irritation.
Try eye drops for OTC care
For a remedy that won’t be too difficult to get your hands on, head to wherever you stock your medicine cabinet. Alongside contact solution and lens wipes, you’ll find a variety of artificial tears, including some formulated especially for tired or dry eyes. As a bonus, it’s easy to keep a bottle of eye drops on hand while working remotely.
Hydrate
Another easy step to combat symptoms of dry eye syndrome? Drink more water! In addition to the effects of staring at a screen all day, there’s a good chance you’re not getting your recommended ounces per day while working from your couch or home office. Keep a reusable water bottle next to you as you work for a visual reminder to drink up.
Read up on remote work
With the global remote workforce growing by the day, there are countless resources available for both first-time and long-time remote workers to learn more about working remotely. From social media threads and listicles filled with advice to more formal remote working resources, there’s bound to be some advice or resource that will make a difference for you. The information itself can range from tricks for setting up your home office to taking care of your health as a remote worker. You’ll find ways to not only reduce eye irritation but make your all-around remote work experience a better one.
Accessorize with some corrective lenses
When your symptoms of dry eye disease are caused by computer eye strain, your eyes might be overcompensating for poor vision just as much as they’re struggling to keep up with your screentime. If possible, be sure to visit your optometrist as often as recommended to stay up to date on any prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses (or get your first pair, if you need them for the first time from Contact Lenses Plus). You might just get the chance to show off a new look on your next Zoom call—all while preventing further eye injury or strain. If you are worried that corrective lenses are not for you, do consider stylish prescription Aviator glasses instead.
Consider medication
Depending on your situation and symptoms, your doctor might suggest a prescription medication to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease, such as Xiidra. If you aren’t finding relief by implementing other remedies, or if your symptoms have underlying medical causes unrelated to your remote work, this might be just the solution your eyes need. And, while you likely can’t write off trips to the pharmacy as a taxable work expense, you can save money on your medication with a Xiidra coupon (and with coupons for your other medications) to ensure your out-of-pocket costs are as affordable as possible so your prescription is accessible.
Remote working can wreak havoc on your eyes with dryness, blurry vision, or other symptoms caused by computer eye strain. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to combat those symptoms and keep up the great work you’d expect to do in the office.
