Prescriptions for nearsightedness or farsightedness can't help focus a monitor, usually 21-24 inches away. Tedder's headaches were better the first day she used her new glasses and were gone in two weeks, but creep back when she forgets them. About 40 percent of sufferers find relief with computer-strength glasses, often just a fraction of an adjustment. But most of the problem is cured by the prescription, which can be done by any optometrist, says eyestrain specialist Dr. David Colker. Lenses can seamlessly incorporate a computer prescription like a bifocal.
Some drugstores even carry non-prescription computer glasses.
Use copy holders to position material level with the screen so eyes refocus less often. Clean your screen. Declutter the view. Staring at your screen causes you to blink less, drying of blinking frequently. American Optical Assn.