Here’s what staring at computer is causing to your eyes

by Arpita Wadhawan
Eyes

Experiencing discomfort or strain in your eyes lately after looking at the computer, tablet or any screen?
Computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain may be the reason behind it.

What is Computer vision syndrome (CVS)?

CVS is a vision related problem resulting from focusing the eyes on a computer or other display device for prolonged periods of time and the eye muscles being unable to recover from the strain.

What are the symptoms related to Computer Vision Syndrome?

  • Eyestrain
  • Headaches
  • Blurred Vision
  • Dry Eyes
  • Neck and Shoulder Pain

What causes Computer Vision Syndrome or Digital Eye Strain?

Our eyes and brain react differently to characters on a computer screen than they do to printed characters. Focusing on printed material that has dense black characters with defined edges is easier for our eyes than the characters on a computer screen. It is because words and images on a computer screen are combinations of small dots (pixels), which are brightest at the center and gradually decrease in intensity toward their edges. This makes it more rigorous for our eyes to maintain focus on them as it doesn’t have the same degree of contrast and definition.

Our eyes want to always be at a diminished level of focusing. So, our eyes continuously flex in between this comfort level of focusing and then strain to refocus on the screen. This creates fatigue and eye strain.

EYES PROBLEM

How can Computer Vision Syndrome be treated?

Following a few changes in your workplace can prevent CVS:

Viewing the Computer

Location of a computer screen – Try adjusting your computer screen 10 to 13 cms below eye level when measured from the center of the screen and 50 to 70 cms from the eyes.

Lighting – Position the computer screen to avoid glare, particularly from lighting or windows. Use blinds or drapes on windows.

Seating position – Chair height should be such that your feet rest flat on the floor. The armrest should be adjusted to provide arm support while you are typing. Your wrists shouldn’t rest on the keyboard while typing.

Blinking – Blinking quite often keeps the dry eye problem away as it moist the front surface of the eye.

Rest breaks – Rest your eyes for 15 minutes after two hours of continuous computer use. Also, for every 20 minutes of computer viewing, look elsewhere for 20 seconds to let your eyes relax and refocus.

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