Are you having problems with computer eye strain? Do you often work for long hours every day in front of a computer? Do you feel a pain in your eyes afterwards? Then you might be among the many computer users who suffer from computer vision syndrome or otherwise known as computer eye strain.
Using computers excessively over a long period of time can lead to computer eye strain as well as a number of health problems including the aggravation of myopia, farsightedness, eye-focusing problems, astigmatism, and poor hand-eye coordination. Besides that, a person will likely suffer from shoulder and neck stiffness sitting in one position for long hours.
Studies from the American Optometric Society have shown that about 90% of computer users suffer from computer eye strain, blurred vision, headaches and other vision related problems attributed to prolonged hours of computer use. Such problems on one’s vision can lead to fatigue and a lack of energy to continue working. Aside from computer eye strain, many studies have shown that heavy users of computers are likely to develop glaucoma.
Computer eye strain can be corrected. But before we try to understand what the remedies for it are, we should be able to identify what its symptoms are in the first place.
Symptoms of Computer Eye Strain
• Headaches
• Blurred vision
• Red, dry or irritated eyes
• Dizziness or nausea
• Increase in myopia
• Color perception changes
• Slow refocusing
• Finds it difficult to concentrate
• Too much fatigue
• Pain in the neck, shoulder and lower back
• Having double vision or eye-teaming difficulties.
Many of the symptoms of computer eye strain can be corrected simply by improving one’s working conditions, posture, and using lenses that relieve stress and are recommended for computer use. Using anti-glare screens for your computer and taking nutritional supplements can also help.
Here are some helpful tips to help you in reducing computer eye strain:
• Take small breaks once in a while. This will help your eyes rest for a while. You can try taking 10 minute breaks every hour.
• Engage in Eye Exercises. Engaging in eye exercises will improve your vision and keep your eyes coordinated.
• Keep a considerable distance from the monitor. The viewing distance considered appropriate when you use the computer is about 20-24 inches away.
• Use a high quality monitor. Choose a monitor which has a higher screen resolution.
• Do not slouch. When sitting or standing up, use proper posture.
• Adjust screen brightness and screen contrast to the right levels.
• Instead of using an overhead lamp or light, use a desk lamp instead.
• Use anti-glare screen
By following some of these tips, you greatly reduce the amount of computer eye strain you are feeling and improve your vision as well.
