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20-20-20 Vision: Reduce Eyestrain and Stay Focused

Published in Eye Care, For the Health of It Author: Jeffrey Pearson,OD Author: Jeffrey Pearson, OD, CentraCare Eye Clinic

After working at your desk all day, do your eyes feel tired, dry or heavy? Do you ever have trouble staying focused on your screen? If so, the solution might not be another cup of coffee. You could be experiencing eyestrain.

What is eyestrain?

Eyestrain is a common condition. It occurs when your eyes get tired and can be caused by long drives, reading or use of computer screens. People who look at digital screens for multiple hours in a row every day are most at risk for eyestrain. Common symptoms include:

  • Feeling like you can’t keep your eyes open
  • Tired, sore, or burning eyes
  • Double or blurry vision
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Headaches

Fortunately, eyestrain is easy to treat. Along with proper monitor placement and angle, my favorite tip is the 20-20-20 rule. It’s simple to remember and use.

  • Take a short break every 20 minutes.
  • Find something 20 feet away.
  • Look at it for at least 20 seconds.

This is a great way to make sure your eyes get the rest they need. So, the next time you feel drained, recognize the signs of eyestrain and try the 20-20-20 rule. You’ll feel more energized, awake and focused throughout the workday.

If you’re looking for even more relief, our Optical Shop has a variety of options. You can find lenses that reduce exposure to blue light, anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare, specific computer glasses and more.