FACTS ABOUT COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME
Computer vision syndrome is a condition caused by focusing the eyes on a computer screen or other device for long, uninterrupted periods of time. This condition can cause headaches, blurred vision, and other problems. With so much of our time spent looking at computer screens, tablets, or smartphones, computer vision syndrome is becoming an issue for a large segment of the population. In this post, Dr. Joseph King discusses symptoms and ways to prevent computer vision syndrome.
Prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome
According the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, computer vision syndrome affects about 90 percent of the people who spend three hours or more a day at a computer. The average American worker spends around seven hours each day doing computer work, and leisure time often includes even more time staring at a digital screen. If your job involves using the computer for most of the day, you’ve probably experienced some of the symptoms of computer vision syndrome.
Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome
Common symptoms of computer vision syndrome include eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck or shoulder pain. The severity of these symptoms often increases with the amount of time spent looking at a screen. These symptoms are often temporary and will decline after spending some time away from the digital screen. However, in some cases, symptoms can continue to worsen and result in reduced visual abilities even after stopping work at a computer.
How to Relieve Computer Eye Strain
Changing the way you view the computer can help alleviate the symptoms of computer vision syndrome. The following tips will make viewing the computer easier on your eyes:
- Use proper lighting. Avoid excessively bright light from either the sun or overhead lighting by using blinds and using lower wattage light bulbs.
- Avoid glare. If there is no way for you to minimize glare, use a screen glare filter.
- Adjust computer location. For most people, viewing the computer is easier if it is 4 to 5 inches below eye level and 20 to 28 inches away from you.
- Adjust seating position. Ergonomically aligned furniture and using proper posture can help provide relief from computer vision syndrome.
Talk to a Vision Expert
If you are experiencing vision problems or have computer vision syndrome, talk to a vision expert at King LASIK about your options for fixing this issue. Schedule your consultation today by calling 1.877.551.2020.