Do you have computer eye strain?
Ever get a headache and irritated eyes after working on your computer? You are not alone. According to the American Optometric Association, Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) computer eye strain is occurring in about 70% of moderate to frequent computer users.
Screen Technology Causes Computer Eye Strain
Staring at a computer or other digital device for two hours or more without using measures to prevent computer eye strain, can put you at risk for CVS. This growing problem is a new condition of the electronic age, where people of all ages are inundated by variations of screen technology. From TV sets and computer monitors to hand held devices–they are nearly everywhere we go.
The headaches, eye strain, fatigue, and irritated eyes are even more common for those who wear optical aids, such as contacts or glasses. Additionally, this 71% of CVS sufferers also complain of back, neck, and eye pain more often. Although you cannot change your genetic propensity for poor eyesight, you can at least reduce eye strain’s role in its development. Avoiding overuse of these items seems like the obvious answer, but modern life and work often make it unavoidable.
Paying attention to four areas can make a big difference in your computer eye strain:
1. Computer Screen Placement: If your computer screen is equal to or above eye level, this could be causing unnecessary eye strain. The best placement for eye health and comfort, puts the center of the screen four or five inches below eye level and 20 to 28 inches away from your face.
2. Lighting and Glare Reduction: A light source shining on your screen will cause eye strain because of the the glare. A carefully placed directional lamp that shines on the desk surface instead of the device will provide adequate light and keep reflections at a minimum.
3. Take a 20 Second Break: In order to rest your eyes and reduce the occurrence of eye strain, there is a simple 20/20/20 rule to remember. Every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds to allow your eyes to refocus.
4. Remember to Blink: Blinking is necessary to moisten your eyes and keep irritation at bay. When people stare at a screen, they tend to blink far less than usual, which can lead to “dry eye.”
Bottom Line: To prevent computer eye strain you must take action – starting today!
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Blinking is not the only thing that leads to dry eye. It is actually a function of the drying up of the muscles and light receptors around the eyes. If you sit close to a window and let in fresh air the problem of dry eyes will diminish. I learned this the hard way. I had no tears for several months as a result of computer use. Water and allowing the air to re-balance itself naturally was the solution. I am a walking miracle who has recovered from life threatening issues arising from computer use. I have dedicated myself to helping us all truly understand the issues involved.