Today many individuals occupation and recreation have them spending may hours at the computer screen so the question is…can this be harmful to their eyes. The answer is no, providing they take certain precautions to protect their eyes. The most common computer related eye complaints, referred to as CVS (computer vision syndrome) are eye fatigue, eye strain and dry eyes. The simple way to prevent eye fatigue is to take a break every 10 -15 minutes by closings your eyes for 20-30 seconds. Eye strain can be lessened by attaching an anti-glare screen if you have an older monitor. It is also helpful to move the screen away from direct lighting if you do not have the anti-glare screen. People who do wear glasses can benefit from having an antireflective coating on their lenses. Adjustments should be made for proper screen resolution and screen contrast. For dry eyes you can use artificial tears or a humidifier. Plant alsoput more moisture in the air if they are allowed in your work environment.
From time to time there is rumor of the threat of radiation damage to the eye from computer use. There is not enough electromagnetic radiation emitted from computer screens today, unless the screen is faulty. Another myth is that computer usage can lead to cataracts. Today there is not enough evidence to substantiate this myth.
You can experience problems in other areas of your body from using the computer that is associated with your eyes. The most common one is pain in the back of the neck. Individuals who wear bi-focal glasses tend to tilt their head back so that they can read things on the screen. This back and forth movement can really cause significant neck pain. One solution to this problem is having what is known as working glasses. These are glasses that would accommodate your eyes for reading material on the desk and also for the distance to see from the screen to the eyes. You also want to ensure that your workstation is ergonomically correct.
Things to consider for the workstation are:
The height and tilt of your computer screen need to be aligned properly
Are your feet flat on the floor or on a slightly angled foot rest?
Your knees should be bent close to or greater than 90 degrees.
The chair used should support your legs without putting excessive pressure on the back of your thighs.
The back should be snug against the seat and fit your spinal contour.
Your thigh to trunk angle should be 90 degrees or more
The human eye works more efficiently operating from a distance but if you make some adjustments to your workstation and limit continuous usage time by taking periodic breaks, you should be able to use the computer with less eye problems. If after making adjustments, you still seemed to be bothered by CVS (computer vision syndrome) it is advisable to seek the advice of your eye care practitioner
Posted By: Belinda Anderson
Monday, November 3rd 2008 at 5:41PM
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