6 Common Causes of Eyes and Head Hurt from Computer Use and How to Prevent Them

Staring at a computer screen for long periods can take a toll on your eyes and head. Many of us experience eye strain, headaches, and other discomforts after spending too much time in front of a computer. These problems can be caused by a number of factors, including:

1. Poor posture. Sitting hunched over your computer can put strain on your neck and shoulders, which can lead to headaches. Make sure to sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed and your feet flat on the floor.
2. Improper lighting. Working in a dimly lit or brightly lit environment can strain your eyes. Make sure your workspace is well-lit, but not too bright.
3. Eye strain. Focusing on a computer screen for long periods can cause your eyes to become tired and strained. It's important to take frequent breaks from your computer to give your eyes a chance to rest.
4. Headaches. Headaches can be caused by a number of factors, including eyestrain, neck strain, and stress. If you're experiencing headaches after using your computer, it's important to rule out other potential causes.
5. Computer vision syndrome. Computer vision syndrome is a condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including eye strain, headaches, and fatigue. It is caused by prolonged use of computers and other digital devices.
6. Dry eyes. Spending a lot of time in front of a computer can lead to dry eyes. This is because the eyes produce less tears when you're staring at a computer screen. Dry eyes can be uncomfortable and can make it difficult to focus.

If you're experiencing any of these problems, there are a number of things you can do to help prevent them:

• Take frequent breaks. Every 20 minutes, take a break from your computer and look at something else for at least 20 seconds. This will help to give your eyes a chance to rest.
• Adjust your posture. Make sure to sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed and your feet flat on the floor. This will help to prevent neck and shoulder strain.
• Improve your lighting. Make sure your workspace is well-lit, but not too bright. Avoid working in dimly lit or brightly lit environments.
• Use a computer monitor with a built-in blue light filter. Blue light is a type of light that can be emitted from computers and other digital devices. It has been shown to cause eye strain and headaches. Using a computer monitor with a built-in blue light filter can help to reduce your exposure to blue light and prevent these problems.
• Use artificial tears. If you're experiencing dry eyes, you can use artificial tears to help keep your eyes moist.

If you're experiencing severe pain or discomfort, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

How to Prevent Eyes and Head Hurt from Computer Use

There are a number of things you can do to prevent eyes and head hurt from computer use, including:

• Blinking regularly. Blinking helps to keep your eyes moist and lubricated. Make sure to blink regularly, especially when you're working on a computer.
• Using a computer monitor with a large display. A larger display will reduce the amount of strain on your eyes.
• Adjusting the brightness and contrast of your computer monitor. Make sure your computer monitor is at a comfortable brightness and contrast level.
• Taking breaks. Take frequent breaks from your computer to give your eyes a chance to rest. Every 20 minutes, take a break for at least 20 seconds.
• Stretching your neck and shoulders. Stretching your neck and shoulders can help to prevent strain and headaches. Take a few minutes every hour to stretch your neck and shoulders.
• Getting enough sleep. Getting enough sleep is important for overall health, including eye health. Make sure to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

Tips for Reducing Eye Strain

• Use a blue light filter. Blue light is a type of light that can be emitted from computers and other digital devices. It has been shown to cause eye strain and headaches. Using a blue light filter can help to reduce your exposure to blue light and prevent these problems.
• Take breaks. Every 20 minutes, take a break from your computer and look at something else for at least 20 seconds. This will help to give your eyes a chance to rest.
• Adjust your lighting. Make sure your workspace is well-lit, but not too bright. Avoid working in dimly lit or brightly lit environments.
• Use a humidifier. A humidifier can help to keep the air moist and prevent dry eyes.
• Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is important for overall health, including eye health. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Benefits of Preventing Eyes and Head Hurt from Computer Use

There are a number of benefits to preventing eyes and head hurt from computer use, including:

• Reduced eye strain. By following the tips listed above, you can help to reduce eye strain and improve your overall eye health.
• Fewer headaches. Eye strain can be a major cause of headaches. By reducing eye strain, you can help to reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
• Improved productivity. Eye strain and headaches can interfere with your ability to focus and concentrate. By preventing these problems, you can improve your productivity and get more done.
• Better sleep. Eye strain and headaches can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. By preventing these problems, you can improve your sleep quality and get a better night's rest.

Conclusion

Eyes and head hurt from computer use are common problems, but they can be prevented by following the tips listed above. By taking care of your eyes and head, you can improve your overall health and well-being.

Additional Resources

• The American Academy of Ophthalmology
• The National Eye Institute
• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration