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Step 1
Get an eye checkup. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health suggests computer users get an eye exam on a yearly basis, to help monitor the condition of your eyes as you build up time on a computer.
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Step 2
Reduce the glare from your computer screen. Position your computer so that your screen doesn't reflect light from other sources. For example, sit so that the screen isn't reflecting incoming sunlight from a window behind you. Move around so that the computer can reflect a blank, lightless wall, if possible.
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Step 3
Use proper ambient lighting when working at a computer. Do not stare at a computer screen for long hours in the dark, if the only light source is the computer's own screen. Severe eyestrain can result in a short time if you do this.
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Step 4
Check the settings on your computer screen. You can prevent eyestrain if you adjust the brightness and the contrast to more comfortable levels for yourself. Play with the possible ranges and combinations until you find a setting that works well for you.
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Step 5
Take a break every so often. Try to be aware of how dry your eyes may feel, and when you may need to blink more. Get away from the computer every half hour for a few minutes, close your eyes or blink them many times in an effort to re-wet them. Don't worry about lost work time; by doing this routinely, you will prevent eyestrain, feel better and your work quality will increase as a result.
