Computer Vision - the health of
your eyes is our first priority!
Have you ever
added up the time you spend in front of your computer, tablet, smart
phone, or other electronic device? Looking at screens is a normal part of our lives in the 21st century.
Unfortunately, eye problems associated with this activity are also on
the rise. Even if you have never had any eye problems before, you may
have noticed computer vision syndrome symptoms after two or more hours
of screen time. Even if your symptoms are mild, they can worsen and
cause other vision problems if not addressed.
There are a number
of factors that determine the amount of strain your body feels as
you work on a computer or other digital device, including lighting in
the room, distance from the screen, glare on the screen, seating
posture, and the angle of your head and/or any existing vision problems
you may have. One or all of these may combine to cause an uncomfortable
amount of strain on your eyes.
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Signs include:
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Blurry vision
• Eye Strain and discomfort
• Headaches
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Dry, scratchy eyes
• Neck and/or shoulder pain |
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Depending on your age, health and occupation, it is recommended
that a comprehensive eye
examination every 1-2 years. |
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The severity and length of
computer vision syndrome symptoms depends on how long you stare at the
computer, your posture, lighting, glare, the angle of the monitor, and
whether or not you have other diagnosed or undiagnosed vision problems.
If you already suffer from astigmatism, farsightedness, presbyopia,
aging eyes, and/or diabetic eye problems, your computer vision symptoms
may worsen. This can even be the case if you already wear prescription
eyeglasses or contacts.
Many regular contact lenses and
eyeglasses, and even sunglasses are not designed to deflect the problems
caused by computer screens. More computer friendly prescriptions are
available. For people with otherwise normal eyes and vision, a set of
specially-designed glasses used during the time you spend on a computer
or screen can be very helpful. |
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| In addition to these treatment
options, there are many things we can suggest to cut down on computer
eye strain problems: |
Computer Setup
Adjust your monitor so that
it is about 15-20 degrees lower than your eye level when seated between
20-28 inches away from the screen. Also, invest in an anti-glare screen
for your monitor to help reduce glare from surrounding lights. Be sure
to sit and work with proper posture.
Adjust Lighting
If you can,
reposition any lighting, or your computer, to minimize glare and use
natural lighting whenever possible.
Eye Rest and Blinking Breaks
Every 20 minutes during your work, look away toward a distant point for
20 seconds to refocus your eyes, and give them a 15 minute break after
each 2 hour computer session. Also remember to blink more frequently to
keep your eyes moist.
With a combination of the proper optometry
care and self-care, you can minimize computer vision syndrome symptoms
and other modern day vision problems. Contact us for an appointment
today. |
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