Computers have been a wonderful addition to our lives. They make it possible for us to do word processing and data management as well as increase our ability to communicate with others with just a few key strokes. They save us a tremendous amount of time when performing many different tasks. All of these favorable aspects of computer usage come with some undesirable consequences. And the most common of them is Computer Vision Syndrome.
What is Computer Vision Syndrome ?
Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is strain on the eyes that happens when you use a computer for prolonged periods of time. Anyone who has spent a few hours on the computer has probably felt some of the effects of prolonged use of the computer or other digital technology.
What Causes Computer Vision Syndrome?
There are a number of factors that determine the amount of strain your body feels as you work on a computer, including lighting in the room, distance from the screen, glare on the screen, seating posture, and the angle of your head – not to mention any existing vision problems you may have. One or all of these may combine to cause an uncomfortable amount of strain on your eyes.
Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome
Your eye care professional can diagnose computer vision syndrome through an eye exam, with special attention paid to how the eye works and responds at computer distance.
You probably have experienced at least one of the common symptoms of computer vision syndrome which include:
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Eyestrain
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Headaches
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Blurred vision
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Dry eyes
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Neck and shoulder pain
These symptoms may be caused by other factors such as uncorrected vision needs, glare, poor lighting, improper posture, etc.
Six Simple Steps to Relief
Here are some simple steps you can take to help minimize the impact of Computer Vision Syndrome:
Keep blinking. It washes your eyes in naturally therapeutic tears.
Remember 20-20-20. Every 20 minutes, spend 20 seconds looking at something 20 feet away, minimum.
Get the right light. Good lighting isn’t just flattering – it’s healthy for your eyes. So, keep bright lighting overhead to a minimum. Keep your desk lamp shining on your desk, not you. Try to keep window light off to the side, rather than in front or behind you. Use blinds and get a glare screen. Position the computer screen to reduce reflections from windows or overhead lights.
Monitor your monitor. Keep it at least 20 inches from your eyes. Center should be about 4 to 6 inches below your eyes. Also, make sure it’s big enough and with just the right brightness and contrast. Adjust the screen so you look at it slightly downward and are about 24 to 28 inches away. Adjust the screen settings to where they are comfortable — contract polarity, resolution, flicker, etc.
So friends always take care of your eyes........