Computer Vision Syndrome, also referred to as digital eyestrain, includes a group of vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader and smartphone use.
Maybe your job requires hours of work at a computer. Maybe you like to spend your free time surfing the internet. Whatever the reason, your body is feeling the effects of spending too much time logged on — dry eyes, tired eyes, headaches, neck pain, blurred vision.
Six Steps to Reduce CVS:
1. Keep blinking. It washes your eyes in naturally therapeutic tears.
2. Get the right light - Good lighting isn’t just flattering – it’s healthy for your eyes. So, keep bright lighting overhead to a minimum. Keep your desk lamp shining on your desk, not you. Try to keep window light off to the side, rather than in front or behind you. Use blinds and get a glare screen. Position the computer screen to reduce reflections from windows or overhead lights.
3. Remember 20-20-20 - Every 20 minutes, spend 20 seconds looking at something 20 feet away, minimum.
4. Wear those computer glasses - Your doctor can prescribe a pair of eyeglasses just for viewing the computer screen well. If necessary, wear the appropriate corrective lenses while at the computer.
5. Monitor your monitor - Keep it at least 20 inches from your eyes. Center should be about 4 to 6 inches below your eyes. Also, make sure it’s big enough and with just the right brightness and contrast. Adjust the screen so you look at it slightly downward and are about 24 to 28 inches away. Adjust the screen settings to where they are comfortable — contract polarity, resolution, flicker, etc.
6. Talk to your doctor - During your eye exam, your eye doctor can check for more than just computer vision problems. He will look for signs of health conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. It’s an important part of your overall health routine.
