We are in a century were every information we want is gotten
through the use of computers, tablets, etc in our homes and
offices.
offices.
Most people complain of eye irritation (dry eye, itchy eyes,
red eyes), blurred vision, eyestrain, headache, backaches, neck aches, muscle
fatigue, etc after prolonged use of computer, tablet, e-reader, and cell phone.
These symptoms are characterized as computer or digital vision syndrome.
Although research have shown that computer vision syndrome
does not cause any permanent damage to the eye but the symptoms they present
can affect workplace performance or the enjoyment of home activities. These
symptoms are usually worst when the individual has an uncorrected refractive
error (myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism).
Working on a computer is more demanding and challenging to
the eyes than reading a book because the eyes have to deal with contrast,
flickers and glare from the screen of these devices (computers, tablets, cell
phones, etc).
Most of the visual
symptoms are temporary and resolves when the individual stops using the digital
devices. However, in some individuals, the visual symptoms may continue despite
withdrawal from the use of the digital device and if nothing is done to address
the cause of the problem, the symptoms might worsen with future digital use.
Computer or digital vision syndrome can be prevented or
reduced if the individual controls the lighting and glare on the computer screen,
establish and maintain a proper working distance and posture for viewing the
screen and correct his or her refractive error no matter how minor they might
be.
In addition, the following steps will help minimize the
visual symptoms associated with computer vision syndrome.
Avoid Glare; Reduce
glare on your computer screen by closing any nearby window (or use curtains)
from which the glare is reaching your computer screen. You can also move your
monitor a little bit until the glare disappears. Cover your lamps and bulbs
with glare screens and cover your monitor, tablet and cell phone with glare
filter.
Adjust your computer
Settings; Adjust your computer font size, brightness and contrast until you
get the adjustment that suits your vision. The individual is advised to
increase the computer font size, reduce the brightness and normalize the contrast
until he or she is comfortable.
Position your Monitor
Properly; Position your monitor slightly below (4-6 inches) your eye level
and 20-28 inches away from you. To prevent looking up at your screen and back
down at your desk while typing, put your typing material on a stand and place
it near your monitor. At this position, you won’t be stretching your neck or
strain your eyes to see what’s on the monitor and your typing material.
Take a Break; Always
look away from your monitor every 20 minutes before you continue with your
computer work. Blink as often as possible while working on your computer to
keep your eyes moist and if your eyes are getting unnecessarily dry, visit an
optometrist for lubricating eye drops.
Visit your Eye
Doctor; Thorough eye examination by an optometrist will review the cause of
these visual symptoms because some of the conditions causing computer vision
syndrome are refractive error related. Hence the optometrist will determine if
you need glasses, contact lenses, special computer glasses or lubricating eye
drops.
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