The eyes are among the most important and most frequently used organs during studying and working, especially with the increased use of smartphones and computers. Long hours of screen use or continuous reading may lead to eye strain, fatigue, and headaches. Therefore, following healthy habits is essential to maintain eye health and clear vision.
Causes of Eye Strain During Study and Work
Several factors can cause eye strain, including:
Prolonged use of computers and smartphones.
Reading under poor or excessively bright lighting.
Sitting incorrectly in front of screens.
Lack of regular breaks.
Insufficient sleep and dry eyes.
Ways to Protect Eye Health
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Doctors recommend looking at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes to reduce eye strain.
2. Adjust Lighting Properly
Lighting should be moderate during study or work, while avoiding glare on screens.
3. Maintain a Proper Distance
The computer screen should be about 50–70 cm away from the eyes and positioned at eye level.
4. Use Artificial Tears if Needed
Lubricating eye drops may help reduce dryness caused by prolonged screen exposure.
5. Get Enough Sleep
Good sleep helps the eyes rest and recover, so sleeping 7–8 hours daily is recommended.
6. Eat Healthy Foods
Foods rich in Vitamin A and Omega-3, such as carrots and fish, help support eye health.
Conclusion
Maintaining eye health is essential for effective study and work performance. By following simple healthy habits such as taking breaks, improving lighting, and getting enough sleep, eye strain can be reduced and vision can be protected from future problems.
Mrs. Reham Safaa Najem
University of Al-Mustaqbal – The First and Leading Private University