Computer eye strain is a common condition caused by prolonged use of computers, laptops and digital screens. It occurs when the eyes become tired from focusing on screens for extended periods and is often linked to discomfort, blurred vision and headaches.
We live in an era where the use of computers is prevalent in the workplace and most homes.
Staring at computers for long periods of time may cause eye strain.
Problems of the eye caused by the use of computers is termed Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).
What is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)?
Computer Vision Syndrome is a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet or digital screen use. Symptoms may worsen with poor lighting, glare, improper viewing distances and uncorrected vision problems.
Symptoms of computer vision syndrome are:
- Eye Strain
- Headaches
- Blurred Vision
- Double Vision
- Eye Irritation
- Dry Eyes
- Watery Eyes
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Neck Pain
You cannot dictate how long you will sit in front of a Visual Display Unit (VDU) or a monitor, but you can carry out these simple measures to eliminate and reduce the symptoms of computer vision syndrome:
1. Take a Break
Try following the 20-20-20 rule. Take a 20 second break from your monitor for every 20 minutes you work and look at something 20 feet away. Try to use the break to blink frequently. Go for a walk for a few minutes as sitting down can give you discomfort.
2. Cut the Glare
Glare that is reflected from walls and shiny surfaces as well as reflections from your computer can cause eye strain. Here are a few measures to reduce glare:
- Use an anti glare screen for your monitor.
- If possible paint walls in a darker colour with a matt finish.
- Reduce outside light by covering windows or use a hood that covers over the monitor.
- If you wear glasses, purchase lenses with an anti-glare coating.
3. Use the Correct Lighting
Eye strain is caused by excess light coming in through windows or due to internal room lighting. Here are some tips to reduce eye strain:
- Use curtains, drapes or blinds to reduce excess sunlight entering the room.
- Increase text and image size to a comfortable viewing level.
- Decrease the colour temperature to reduce blue light exposure which is known to cause eye strain and fatigue.
4. Upgrade Your Monitor
Upgrading your monitor from the old cathode ray tube (CRT) to a modern LCD can help reduce eye strain. Old CRT monitors flicker which can cause eye strain, whereas LCD monitors are easier on the eyes and usually have an anti-reflective coating.
When choosing a new monitor, select a panel with the highest resolution.
5. Adjust Your Computer Monitor Settings
Eye strain can be reduced by tweaking your display settings using the following tips:
- Adjust your monitor brightness to match your surroundings.
- Increase text and image size to a comfortable viewing level.
- Decrease the colour temperature to reduce blue light exposure, which is known to cause eye strain and fatigue.
6. Make Changes to Your Workstation Settings
Your posture and positioning can contribute to eye strain. Here are a few ways to improve your workstation setup:
- Position your monitor at arm’s length away and slightly below eye level
- Place documents on a stand adjacent to your monitor to avoid frequent head movement.
- Ensure your desk and chair are at the correct height to maintain good posture.