Do I Have Computer Vision Syndrome?
Not just writers, but anyone who spends extended periods of time sitting in front of a computer screen can suffer from Computer Vision Syndrome. The term, a relatively new one, was created by the American Optometric Association. It’s used to describe the common vision problems that arise from looking at a computer screen for extended periods of time.
One of the causes of Computer Vision Syndrome is that the pictures and words you see on a computer screen aren’t clear. Therefore, your eyes must focus and readjust themselves constantly in order to see what’s on the screen. If you’re moving back and forth between reading a hard paper copy and words on a computer screen, it’s even harder on your eyes.
Other factors that can bring on Computer Vision Syndrome involve the brightness of your computer screen, the amount of glare, the configuration of your screen, and the rate of image refreshes.
The usual symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome are red, fatigued eyes, blurry vision, double vision, and even aches and pains in the neck and back muscles. This health problem usually affects people who work at least five hours at a time at a computer.
Once your eyes feel the effects of this common vision problem, there’s not an established medical remedy. To help soothe your red, fatigued eyes, you can use VisineâÂ?¢ eye drops, or a similar over-the-counter product. In order to achieve the best results, make sure you read and follow the directions on the bottle.
The best “medicine” to relieve the symptoms is to stop using your computer and give your eyes a rest for awhile, according to The American Optometric Association. Once you end a long session of looking at your computer screen, and your eyes aren’t put under that strain any longer, the symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome should clear up. At least, until you sit down in front of your computer again. If you experience vision problems for an extended period of time, you should schedule a visit with your optometrist.
There are several things you can do to help reduce your risk of suffering from Computer Vision Syndrome. First, whenever you work on your computer, you should work in a room that’s darker than normal. The experts advise that the lighting be about half the normal lighting level of an office environment. Reducing the brightness of the lighting will help reduce the glare from your computer screen.
Also, to help reduce the glare that can contribute to Computer Vision Syndrome, make sure other lights in the room don’t shine onto your computer screen.
Keep your computer monitor clean by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Monitors tend to collect dust, can get fingerprints on them, as well as other types of smears. Trying to see words or graphics through a bleary screen can also contribute to Computer Vision Syndrome.
And, whether you use a PC or a laptop, make sure you keep your computer monitor sixteen to thirty inches away from your eyes, according to The American Optometric Association.
As a professional writer who works on my computer all day, I know the next tip is difficult to do, (because you get involved in your work), but it will also help clear up your vision. If you’re going to work at your computer for an extended period of time, take a break from looking at the screen every twenty minutes. Look away, get up, and even give your body a stretch while you’re at it.
And finally, if you’re still experiencing the symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome, visit your local computer supply store. There are several different types of anti-glare screens available. I use an inexpensive screen on my PC, and it really does help the strain on my eyes.
