One of the main complaints of those who face long hours in front of the computer is the eye burning. THE CNN the ophthalmologist Nicole Ciotto It explains that daily practice causes the patient to blink less, thus reducing natural eye lubrication, favoring dryness and, consequently, discomfort.
According to the expert, the constant use of the canvases promote the so -called reducing the flashing reflex. “In a normal situation, we blink about 15 to 20 times per minute. However, when focusing on electronic devices, this frequency may fall in half,” he says. The result, then, is the early evaporation of the tear, and the emergence of symptoms such as burning, feeling of sand in the eyes, blurred vision and, in more intense cases, eye pain.
Very common in much of the population, the symptom can have several causes. “This occurs when tears production is insufficient or poor quality, or when there is excessive evaporation of the tear. Environmental factors such as air conditioning, fans, pollution and prolonged exposure to screens, aggravate this picture, as well as allergies, infections or the use of annoying products,” he details.
When does the eye burning cease to be normal?
The alert sign should appear when the eye ardor becomes persistent, interfering with quality of life. Also, when it comes with other symptoms, such as intense redness, secretion, light sensitivity or vision change also deserves extra attention.
“In such cases, it is essential to seek an ophthalmologist for a careful assessment, as there may be underlying conditions such as blepharitis, conjunctivitis, chronic dry eye or even autoimmune diseases,” he says.
Adapting the routine to avoid the eye burning
For Ciotto, the best approach is prevention, involving:
- Regular breaks (rule 20-20-20: every 20 minutes, look at something at 20 feet away-about 6 meters-for 20 seconds);
- Maintain a proper distance from the screen (between 50 and 70 cm) and with the monitor positioned slightly below the eye line;
- Adjust the brightness and contrast of the screen to reduce visual effort;
- Use lubricating eye drops, according to medical advice, to compensate for the reduction of natural lubrication;
- Control environmental factors such as avoiding direct air current on the face and maintaining moisture of the environment.
And more – see five tips to avoid eye tiredness
- Flading more frequently: It seems simple, but consciously blinking helps to keep the ocular surface hydrated;
- Regular breaks: This practice relaxes the eye muscles and reduces the accumulated tension;
- Proper lighting: Working with balanced ambient light reduces the contrast between the screen and the environment, avoiding excessive visual effort;
- Adjusting work environment ergonomics: correct height monitor and comfortable chair prevent inadequate use of body muscles;
- Ocular hygiene and use of lubricating eye drops: Maintaining eyelid hygiene and using artificial tears helps protect the eye surface;
This content was originally published in eye burning and time against screens: Learn how to balance this relationship on the CNN Brazil website.
Source: CNN Brasil
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