How to Avoid Getting Dry Eyes From the Computer

Computer use, especially for long periods, can cause a condition in which your eyes can't generate enough tears to remain lubricated. The result is that your eyes feel scratchy, irritated and painful. You can avoid "dry eye" by taking precautions.

Things You'll Need

• Artificial tears
• Humidifier
• Eyeglasses

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Rest your eyes periodically. Your eyes relax when you look at something in the distance, so every 20 minutes or so look out a window or just sit back and look across the room for a minute or two.

• 2

  Blink often to increase tear production and decrease tear evaporation. The average blink rate is twelve blinks per minute. However while working on the computer the average rate unconsciously drops to five per minute. Deliberately blink every few seconds.

• 3

  Use artificial tears to lubricate your eyes. There are numerous over-the-counter brands available which you can safely use while you work on your computer. Apply regularly.

• 4

  Install a humidifier near your computer. Dry air will cause your tears to evaporate quicker, so keep the moisture level in your home or office comfortable. If you don't have a humidifier, place bowls of water out around your computer to add moisture to the environment.

• 5

  Wear eyeglasses when you work on the computer. Contact lenses tend to dry out as you stare at the screen. Soft contact lenses, which float on the cornea, actually absorb tears causing your eyes to dry out even quicker.