Computer Screens and Your Vision Problems Associated with Computer Use

Computer terminals are a part of daily life as a working and/or recreational tool. As a result, vision problems related to computer usage such as eye strain, headaches, dizziness, blurry vision, fatigue, etc., are occurring more frequently. By having your eyes checked for these problems, we can alleviate the many problems associated with computer use. At Geneva Optometrics, we can evaluate the specific situation to determine whether there is a general vision problem, or whether the problem is directly related to working with the Video Display Terminal. There are various corrective measures that can be used to assist the computer user to relax the eyes and allow them to continue in their day to day computer activities. Factors that Affect Your Eyes The viewing distance between yourself and the computer screen The size and definition of print and background color of the screen Glare from the VDT itself, from overhead lights, or other light sources The age of the computer user, the need for computer eyeglass correction, the amount of blinking occurring while working on the VDT and the atmosphere the computer is being used in ( dryness of the air in the office, dusty environment, etc.) Six Tips for Computer Users Below are six tips to reduce eyestrain, eye fatigue and glare related headaches that may be related to computer use. Take vision breaks and blink frequently. Take frequent breaks away from your computer to allow your eyes to fully relax and refresh themeselves and make an effort to blink more frequently throughout the day. Decrease monitor glare. If you can see your reflection in your monitor, you probably have a glare problem. Glare, reflections and overhead lighting that are brighter than the light emitted by the monitor will force your eyes to work harder than is typically comfortable. Ther are a number of ways to decrease excessive glare from your monitor, including: adding an anti-glare filter to your monitor relocating your monitor using drapes, shades or blinds installing lower wattage overhead light bulbs or reducing room lighting to half of normal office levels. Eye examination. Be sure to get an annual eye examination. Adjust monitor distance. Position the monitor at least 20 inches away from your eyes. Adjust monitor height. Arrange the monitor so it's top edge is at eye level. Placing a monitor too high exposes more of the eye, causing it to dry out. Clean the screen. Staring through dust, dirt and fingerprints on your monitor screen makes the image more difficult to see.