Vision & Age

At The Computer

When the hours add up

Millions of people suffer from eye problems due to computer work and that number is rising each year. Why? All those hours you spend at the computer are straining your eyes, creating a condition known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). Since the computer is part of your work and part of your life the best option is to learn how to help your eyes.

It's a constant adjustment

Computer images are created from thousands of tiny dots so there is no distinct image for your eye to actually focus on. You have to focus and refocus to keep the images sharp and after two hours you end up with the same kind of repetitive stress in your eye muscles that the keyboard causes in your wrists.

It won't cause permanent damage, but it is literally a pain.

What's it feel like?

The symptoms are dry, red, irritated eyes; headaches; back and neck aches; and trouble focusing. Lots of people don't even know they have CVS. But now that you know what to look for, you can guard against it.

Tips to prevent CVS?

Keep your computer screen within 50cm-60cm of your eyes
Keep the top of your computer screen slightly below eye level
Minimize the distance between your computer screen and any documents you need to reference while working
Use aritificial tear drops to soothe irritated, dry eyes
Adjust lighting to minimize glare on the screen
Take a break every 15 minutes to focus on a distant object
Blink frequently