Computer Vision Syndrome
Staring at a computer screen for hours each day can lead to computer vision syndrome, which has symptoms of tired dry eyes, blurred vision, eye strain, headache, and sensitivity to light.
Dr. Kent Daum, optometrist and vice president of the Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago, says that “a computer is a challenging environment for the visual system primarily because the imagery is not as clear as it seems to be, and because of that it’s harder for the eye to focus than it would be an ordinary print.”
According to an AOA survey of approximately 1,000 people over 18 years old, 82 percent reported that they frequently use a computer or handheld device, 42 percent reported that they use a computer at least 3 hours each day. The survey also revealed that 73% do not take computer breaks as often as they should and 10% said that they never take breaks.
To relieve computer vision syndrome, Dr. Daum recommends making sure that you are blinking while using a computer, reducing the amount of lighting near the computer, and to be sure that your workstation is adjusted for the correct ergonomics.
While concentrating, blink rate decreases, which causes dry eyes. Dr. Daum also recommends looking away from your computer for 20 seconds after every 20 minutes.
Lighting is very important. Glares or reflections should not be seen on your computer screen and windows should not be in your field of view.
Good ergonomics are important for more than just eye health. It also prevents back, neck, and wrist pain. The monitor should be positioned directly in front of you and the height should be at eye level or just below.
I use a computer every day at work and use it frequently at home. On days of heavy computer use, I do notice that I have dry eyes and sometimes they even get a little bloodshot. I will be certain to take advantage of some of these tips. I think taking quick breaks from the computer screen will certainly be possible at work, and I have attempted to have an ergonomic office for some time now. Unfortunately, lowered lighting at work is not an option; it’s either on or off. However, I can apply this at home and will certainly be more aware of these issues.
Reference: MedLine Plus
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My computer is near the windows. Big windows. I keep drapes across them but, every hour, (well, that’s a bit of a fib, I try to do this about every hour) I swish the drapes back and stare OUT of the window .. a long, long view down to the creek.
I’m guessing that my eyes would like a change from staring at something just in front of them to staring at something a long way off. I hope I’m right.
Canny Granny’s last blog post..Things you always wanted to know
Excellent idea. I would imagine that the sunlight would do your eyes some good. It sounds like a nice view, and I bet that would help relax you momentarily.
I eventually bought a pair of Melavision glasses. I have issues off and on. But sometimes I can’t look at the screen. I spend about 10 hours a day at the computer. The glasses help on the bad days.
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Thanks for the comment, Stephan. That is some good advice. I did not think of that.