by John Edwardson

Created on: February 13, 2009   Last Updated: February 26, 2009

Tired, dry, sore eyes cry out for relief! Repetitive abuse is one main cause of ugly black bags under puffy, red eyes in the morning. Aside from the obvious cure (more sleep), here are a few tips that can really refresh those eyes, especially for those of us who choose to abuse:

IMMEDIATE RELIEF: 'First-aid' for DRY and TIRED eyeballs - moisture and rest.

MOISTURE:

1. Wash your face ... lots of water for an extended period.

2. Eye drops ... 'artificial tears' are fine ... they help, but can be addictive ... the more you use them, the more you need them. Commercial eyewash is cheaper and works without leaving the residue of the others.

3. Try one of the homespun ideas ... like placing slices of cucumbers on your eyelids! Or a wet towel.

4. Use a humidifier in your office, and overnight in the bedroom.

REST for eyes:

1. Take frequent breaks ... not just coffee breaks ... but get away from the screen and do something else for a bit. Exercise really helps. Take a power walk.

2. Lower the brightness of the computer screen if possible, and keep a low light on in the room.

3. Power naps ... use a good light shield for your eyes, a commercial eye mask works best ... fifteen minutes is good. You don't have to sleep ... just total darkness, and pretend to sleep. Use your cell phone alarm if you're afraid of napping too long. Not only will your eyes feel better ... you'll be refreshed!

4. Switch media. If you're working on the computer ... print a few pages of your project and work with pen and paper for a bit. If you're watching a movie ... pause it ... or tape it for later viewing, and pick up your favorite book.

5. Reading books ... check your light ... soft and non-flickering is best.

6. Try to get enough hours of sleep! Doesn't all have to be at night ... if you've burnt the midnight oil ... you deserve an AFTERNOON SIESTA! Set your alarm, put a light mask on your eyes ... and relax. Take the equivalent of your loss. You've earned it. It works!

If those SIMPLE tips don't do the trick, check these more PERMANENT fixes:

1. Get rid of that old monitor or TV. Replace with newer technology. Your eyes will love it. (Old TV tubes emit low-level x-rays).

2. Eyesight ... when all else fails ... get checked ... you might need glasses ... or a change in your prescription. The first sign will be tired sore eyes while reading, computing, watching movies, etc. An eye check-up with an opthamologist can check for serious causes of sore eyes at the same time. Eye infections, macular degeneration,

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>