Eye Care for

Computer Users
by Maurice Brown

In recent years, people have been spending more and more time in front of their computers. With all of this added use, we have begun to develop new ailments related to our increased activities. The most well known of these ailments is carpal tunnel syndrome, but there is a far more common ailment that affects a larger number of computer users. Known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), it typically causes eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, and neck or shoulder pain. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms caused by this syndrome.

Take a Break - It's easy to lose track of time at the computer. Take a break at least once an hour for about 10 minutes and blink frequently -- video display use is associated with a decreased frequency of blinking. Computer use can also cause an increased rate of tear evaporation. Use eye drops to relieve dry, itchy eyes.

Eliminate Glare - Try to get rid of any glare that may cause harsh reflections on your monitor. Adjust blinds or curtains to minimize sunlight. Turn down overhead lights so that the brightness of the screen and the surrounding room are balanced. Do not, however, work in the dark; the contrast between computer-generated light and lack of background light strains the eyes. Task lights should be positioned to provide direct light for reading and other office work, but should not shine directly on the computer. Use a monitor glare screen or hood, change your monitor position, adjust your brightness/contrast controls, and use a larger text size. Also be sure to keep your monitor screen clear of dust, fingerprints or any other thing that can obstruct your view.

Change Your View - Adjust your monitor to avoid awkward head or eye movements. It should be squarely in front of you at a distance of 18 to 28 inches, with the top of the monitor (not the screen) level with your eyes. You may also have to adjust the angle of your monitor to allow your eyes to remain in a natural position (straight ahead and slightly down). The ideal viewing angle is 10 to 20 degrees below your eye level. Remember, too, to place any documents you are working with at the same level as the screen; document holders that attach to the side of your monitor can be purchased at any office supply store.

Seniors and Children - Seniors should take extra care arranging their work stations. The American Optometric Association notes that workers over 50 years of age require twice the light levels of young adults for comfortable work. By the same token, very often small children share the same computer as their parents, a situation that can lead to injury as monitor distance and position have been set up to accommodate the adults. Parents should also keep track of time spent children at the computer to make sure that breaks are taken every hour.

Finally, be sure not to strain and squint to see your computer screen. This can lead to a multitude of problems, including headaches, fatigue, dry-eyes, and prolonged vision problems. Hopefully, these steps will help prevent or relieve any signs of Computer Vision Syndrome. n