Computers can blur your vision...

Computers, like telephones have become indispensable pieces of office equipment. Using computers is such a visually demanding task; vision problems have become very common at work places today.

Sixty million people suffer eye problems due to working on computers, and the number is rising by a million every year.

All those hours we spend at the computer, straining our eyes, causes a condition known as computer vision syndrome (CVS). CVS is characterized by eye strain associated with p[prolonged use of computers, with symptoms which include eye fatigue, dryness of the eyes etc. A number of investigations have indicated that these symptoms occur in 75-90% of computer users.

Computer images are created from thousands of tiny dots – so there is no distinct image for your eye to actually focus on. You have to focus and refocus to keep the images sharp and after two hours you end up with the same kind of repetitive stress on your eye muscles as that caused by the keyboard on your wrists.

The American Optometric Association defines CVS is the eye and vision problems related to work which are experienced during or after computer use. The symptoms can vary but mostly include eye strain, headaches, occasional blurred vision (distance and/or near), dry and irritated eyes, slow refocusing, neck and/or backache, light sensitivity and double vision.

Lots of people don’t even know they have CVS. People suffering from CVS usually blink two-thirds less than normal.

The good news is that the eye and vision problems related to CVS can be alleviated by following good eye-care tips and/or by changes in the work environment.

CVS is a by-product of excessive viewing of screens without regard to practical visual hygiene. By just using some common sense and education about the visual system, the symptoms of CVS can be diminished or eliminated.

Tips to prevent CVS:

1. Blink frequently to lubricate the eyes & prevent dryness – more critical for contact lens wearers. A conscious effort should be made to blink frequently.

2. Take 2-4 minute breaks ever half hour – don’t strain your eyes looking at your computer.

3. Use anti-glare spectacles preferably with grey tinted lenses, which are a neutral absorber and can filter unwanted effects of certain colors.

4. Position the monitor 20-26 inches away from the eyes

5. Keep the computer screen at your eye level or 5 degrees below the eye level.

6. Keep the monitor, CPU, keyboard, mouse and other peripherals in easy-to-reach places so as not to strain any other body parts.

7. Black characters on a white background are usually best. Avoid dark back grounds and the size of the text should be three times the size of the smallest text you can read.

8. Arrange light source to minimize glare and reflections on the screen.

9. Reduce the amount of lighting in the room to match the computer screen.

10. The use of contact lens re-wetting drops is recommended periodically during the day while using the computer screen.

11. Use anti-glare computer screen.

12. Keep your computer screen free of dust.

Conclusion:

Vision, being an important thing in life, needs to be taken care of. Computer Vision Syndrome affects not only your vision but also the productivity of your work. Make sure your visit the optometrist regularly to get your eyes tested for Computer Vision Syndrome. He or she may prescribe special glasses and/or an anti-glare screen filter or make other ergonomic recommendations.