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Computer Eyestrain – Ways to Prevent It!
September 3rd, 2011 | 
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There’s nothing worse than working all day in front of your computer only to walk away with a terrible headache and red, achy eyes. If this is what’s happening to you after spending long hours at your computer, you may be experiencing eyestrain.
A study by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health discovered that more than ninety per cent of those surveyed reported eyestrain and other visual problems after using a computer for more than two hours. The problem has become so commonplace that professionals call it “Computer Vision Syndrome” (CVS). While CVS usually goes away with rest, here are a few things to consider.
Symptoms
Computer eyestrain can present itself in several different ways. If you spend long hours in front of your computer monitor and find that you are frequently developing headaches, blurry vision, squinting, dry eyes, or feeling the need to close one eye to improve focus, you may just have CVS.
Get an Eye Exam
If you suspect that CVS is the culprit behind your vision problems, then it’s time to speak with an optometrist or ophthalmologist and get a thorough eye exam. An eye care professional will be able to look at your medical history and run several tests to determine if you are suffering from CVS and rule out any other eye problems.
Rest Your Eyes
Resting your eyes is often the best and simplest solution to alleviating CVS symptoms. Try spending some time away from your computer. If your work requires that you must use a computer for lengthy periods, try to take multiple 5-minute breaks throughout your workday. You can also try what experts call the “20/20/20 rule;” every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Consider Special Eyeglasses or Computer Contacts
If your computer is creating constant eye discomfort, you may want to ask your eye care professional about prescribing special glasses that can help reduce CVS eyestrain. If you prefer wearing contact lenses, your eyes may feel more soothed by newer types of contacts that offer greater levels of hydration.
Consider Your Lighting
Lighting can play a large role in determining how comfortable you may feel while sitting in front of your computer. Turn off your computer monitor to see if glare from either fluorescent or ambient light is reflected off your blank screen. Glare problems can quickly be resolved by purchasing an inexpensive “glare screen” available at most office supply stores. If you’ve determined that the lighting by your computer is insufficient, a desk lamp may provide the relief you are seeking.
Consider How Often You Blink
Blinking helps to keep the eyes moist and soothed, yet studies have shown that we blink 5 times less when we stare at a computer monitor than when we are occupied in other visual activities. To reduce CVS symptoms you’ll need to make a conscious decision to blink more often. Increased blinking can help to soothe eyestrain irritation.
Monitor Your Monitor
Sometimes the location of your monitor can play a role in increasing or reducing eyestrain. Try moving your monitor closer or farther away. CBS News Medical Correspondent, Dr. Jennifer Ashton suggests placing the computer monitor 15 to 20 degrees below eye level (about 4 or 5 inches) as measured from the center of the screen, and approximately 20 to 28 inches from the eyes. You can also adjust the brightness, color saturation and contrast that appear on your display.
Another way to reduce CVS is to increase the “zoom” on programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Photoshop. Manipulating the monitor and adjusting the zoom can greatly increase comfort when looking at your computer for long periods of time.
Remember that CVS is a temporary condition that usually disappears once the eyes are rested and relaxed. A thorough eye exam, some minor lifestyle and workplace modifications and rest are sure to make you feel better.
Photo credit: 40+28 Eyestrain by Bark/Flickr
Phil Masterson is an eyewear consultant, specializing in contact lenses and he is especially intrigued with the new research for toric contact lenses worn for astigmatism.
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