From irritants to more serious issues, eye problems can take a toll on your productivity level at work and at home. Burning, itchy, painful eyes is distracting and at times can be debilitating, but never more so than when we are trying to get some work done. Good eye health is just as important to monitor as your general health.
Here are a few common complaints with tips to help you find some relief or get some help.
Allergies
Allergies may have a "season", but for some that season is year round. If allergies are a problem then taking an OTC or prescription allergy medication can be helpful. Keeping fresh air inside is important.
Use an air purifier or open nearby windows to help increase circulation and filter out some of the dust and other irritants in the air. Make sure you keep your desk and work area free of dust collecting clutter.
Blurriness
If you suddenly experience blurriness in one or both eyes seek a doctor's care immediately. This is an emergency and can indicate serious issues including a possible stroke. If it is due to vision problems maybe it is time for glasses or a new prescription. Many people are now getting corrective laser eye surgery for basic problems.
If your blurriness is due to tiredness, eye strain or dryness, take a break from any computer or writing work. Stretch and get the blood flowing again. Use some OTC eye drops to moisten and refresh the eyes (use as directed on the bottle). Give your eyes a much needed break throughout the day.
Foreign Objects
It never fails, we get in a rhythm and all of a sudden something flies (or wafts) into our eye. Getting something in our eye hurts and for women it also involves the addition of running eye makeup to the painful (and now messy) mix.
Do not rub your eye(s). This could make any damage worse or cause damage unnecessarily. Use an eye wash, eye drops, or fresh water to rinse the debris (and makeup) from your eye. If the foreign object is causing injury (cutting, burning, etc.), tape a paper cup (or eye shield) over your eye and seek help.
Broken Blood Vessels
Although there is rarely any discomfort that comes with a broken blood vessel in the eye, having one can be a major distraction if you work around or with a lot of people because they will surely ask, “What happened?”
It may look scary, but it’s not really. The only thing you can do is let time do its thing and within a couple days you will see an improvement.
Pinkeye
Unlike a broken blood vessel – which is often blood red in appearance, Pinkeye or conjunctivitis is another story. Viral and bacterial forms of pink eye are contagious. You should not be working with or around people while it is catchy.
See a doctor for treatment right away. Do not rub your eyes, do wash your hands often and use cold compresses on your eyes for some relief of any burning or itching you are experiencing.
Staying healthy helps us to be more productive at work. Distractions are something we need less – not more off.
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