Computer Eye Strain & Steps For Relief
Just like any other body part which is intensely used, our eyes get strained more often than we think. Our day-to-day activities rely heavily on our sense of sight which is why utmost care is needed. Tasks such as driving, reading and working with computers bring about eyestrain to individuals regardless of age.
In our community of San Jose, Milpitas, Sunnyvale and Santa Clara we are seeing more and more patients being diagnosed with computer eye strain during our eye exams
It is noted that eyestrain is now commonly caused by the extended use of computers since the workforce utilize PCs in accordance with their jobs. This type of eyestrain is coined as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) to specifically denote computer-related eye strain. According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, 88% of workers who are engaging in over three hours of computer usage suffer from CVS.
Although, CVS is not considered serious, it is certain that a person inflicted by such condition feels unpleasant. This malady is disruptive in nature and may cause physical fatigue, decreased concentration and even eye twitching which is highly annoying. Some cases would only require an individual to temporarily rest his eyes. However, for tough cases, it may be necessary to change one’s activities or environment to totally relieve the symptoms.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Computer Eye Strain Relief
- First, it is necessary to consult your eye doctor regarding the condition of your peepers.
There’s no reason not to pay a visit for a comprehensive eye exam with an certified eye doctor where ever you may be, there’s one in your neighborhood.
Your history & daily routine will be assessed so that the doctor will know about any existing health conditions you have, as well as, other medications and supplements taken. An eye examination would be performed to check your vision. It is possible that a pair of prescription glasses is needed for computer work. - In any working environment, ample lighting is needed for proper eye care. It is desirable to keep your lighting in medium intensity and well positioned to what you’re working on. Avoid very bright lighting as this may
strain your eyes due to glare.
Attach a glare-reduction filter on your PC monitor and make sure to set your monitor to
the
appropriate contrast and brightness settings. These adjustments will make reading from your screen a comfortable experience. - Look away from the computer screen every 20 minutes and let your eyes refocus on something else in the room. There are free software programs that you can install that will notify you every 20 minutes to take action and give your eyes a break.
- Ensure that your workstation is set-up appropriately to achieve an eye-friendly condition. Position both your monitor and the keyboard directly in front of you. An arm’s length is the
recommended distance between you and your monitor. Also consider adjusting the font size of the screen when small types show up. Avoid placing the keyboard at an angle or on the side of the monitor as this may cause tiring and repeated focusing of the eyes. - Have a document holder available beside your monitor in case you need some reading or reference material nearby. Make sure that the level of the holder is same as that of the monitor. Again, this is to avoid repeated focusing of the eyes.
- Keep your monitor dust-free. The dust affects the contrast of the screen and this result in glare and reflection problems.
Taking care of our eyes is each persons own responsibility. It’s so easy to get consumed by our work and stare at a computer screen for hours at a time. What’s important is that you initiate a move to take care of them at all times.
Sunnyvale Optometrist, Dr. Tarryn Ngo is business owner of North Valley Optometry serving San Jose, Milpitas, Sunnyvale and Santa Clara.
