Gaming With Ease: Tips for Reducing Eye Strain

As a gamer, you know that playing for long hours can be tiring, not just for your fingers but also for your eyes. Eye strain is a common problem among gamers, leading to headaches, blurred vision, and other eye-related issues.

However, with a few simple tips, you can reduce eye strain and enjoy gaming sessions without worrying about your eyes. So before consulting an optometrist, here are some tips for diminishing eye strain while gaming:

1. Take Breaks

Gaming for long, straight hours can only cause eye strain and fatigue. To avoid this, take a 10- to 15-minute break every hour to rest your eyes and stretch your body. During your break, look away from the screen and focus on something else in the room, ideally something at a distance.

2. Adjust Your Screen Settings

Your screen’s brightness, contrast and colour temperature can affect your eyes. By tweaking these settings, you can create a more comfortable viewing experience. Decreasing the brightness to a level that feels best for your eyes is recommended.

The optimal brightness level is typically around 120 cd/m². Additionally, reducing the blue light emitted by your screen can help reduce eye strain. Most devices have a built-in blue-light filter or night mode that you can enable.

3. Use Proper Lighting

The lighting in your gaming area can also impact your eye health. Avoid playing in a dimly lit room or an area with bright, direct sunlight on your screen. Instead, opt for indirect lighting that illuminates the room evenly.

4. Blink More Often

When you stare at a screen for an extended period, you blink less, leading to dryness and discomfort. Optometrists recommend blinking to keep the eyes hydrated and lubricated, reducing strain and fatigue. Remember to blink every few minutes while gaming, or use eye drops to keep your eyes moist.

5. Use the 20-20-20 Rule

The 20-20-20 rule is a simple but effective way of reducing eye strain. Turn away from your screen once every 20 minutes, and for 20 seconds, concentrate on anything that is 20 feet away. This exercise helps your eyes relax and refocus, making you less susceptible to eye strain. It also lessens the risk of developing eye fatigue and headaches associated with prolonged screen time.

6. Adjust Your Monitor’s Position

The position of your monitor can also affect your eyes. Ensure that your monitor is at eye level and that you are sitting at an appropriate distance from it. The recommended distance is at least an arm’s length from your screen. You can also tilt your monitor slightly to reduce glare and reflections on the screen.

7. Visit an Optometrist

Seeing an optometrist is essential if you experience frequent eye strain or other eye-related issues. They can perform a comprehensive eye exam and provide you with a prescription for glasses or contact lenses, if necessary. They can also advise you on how to care for your eyes and reduce the risk of eye strain.

Final Thoughts

Eye strain is a common problem among gamers as they spend extended periods staring at screens. Remember, taking care of your eyes is essential, and it’s never too late.

You can also visit your optometrist regularly to ensure your eyes are healthy and address any issues. By following these tips and seeking professional advice, you can protect your eyes and continue to enjoy gaming for years.

Get top-notch eye care services at Perspective Optometrists, a reliable optometrist based in London. Our team of experts offers thorough eye examinations, customised treatment options, and a broad range of eyeglasses. Schedule your appointment now and enjoy clear vision.