How to Protect Eyes From a Computer

Computer screens can do strange things to your eyes. Using the computer can cause eyestrain symptoms such as "color fringes," "afterimages" and difficulty refocusing, according to MayoClinic.com, which also lists watery, dry, sore, tired, itching, burning eyes or blurred vision as symptoms of eyestrain. MayoClinic.com labels this type of eyestrain as "computer vision syndrome" and offers suggestions on how to prevent it.

Instructions

• 1

  Check your computer screen for glare. Turn the monitor off and look for glare or reflections. Adjust glaring objects behind you such as lamps (move them or turn them off), reflective mirrors (move them) or windows (close the curtains or blinds). Dust your screen to reduce glare.

• 2

  Raise or lower your computer screen. Ensure that the top is eye level so that you can look down at your screen activity.

• 3

  Keep your keyboard in front of your monitor. This prevents viewing your screen from an eye-tiring angle.

• 4

  Keep your distance--approximately 20 to 28 inches or arm's length---from your computer screen. If necessary, increase your computer's font size to make up for the distance.