The effect that computer work has on your eyes

Most jobs today require computer work where you have to stare for long periods of time at the screen. This may add extreme strain to the eyes, normally known as CVS/computer vision syndrome.

It won’t be just one problem specifically, but it may include a variety of eye pain and strain issues. This doesn’t only affect adults as children that use computers during school days or stare continuously at tablets may also develop issues with their eyes. It can especially be bad when combined with poor posture and lighting.

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The way computers may affect your vision

CVS can basically be classified the same as carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as different injuries one may be exposed to due to repetitive motions at work. The reason is, that your eyes follow movements that are the same, especially continuous ones and it may worsen over longer periods of time.

Working with computers means that your eyes are constantly focusing and refocus. This is mostly seen with movements back and forth while reading. With your actions of looking up and down to type, the eyes will react to image changes your screen creates for the brain to process what you see.

These kinds of jobs can require extreme effort from the muscles of your eyes. Matters might even get worse, due to your screen that adding glare, contrast, and flickering, which is different from reading a book. It’s also possible to develop problems when you already experience trouble with your eyes but don’t wear glasses if it’s needed, or when you have prescription glasses that are wrong for working on a computer.

When you get older this work may even become harder because your eye’s lenses will be less flexible. Around forty years of age, the ability to focus on far and near objects may start to decrease, and doctors usually call this condition presbyopia.

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Symptoms you may experience

No-one can proof whether computers cause eye damage over the long-term, though using them regularly will lead to discomfort and strain of the eyes.

You might experience the following:

Back or neck pain

Headaches

Irritation of the eyes

Red, dry eyes

Vision that is double or blurred

When the condition is left untreated, it may affect not only the eyes but also cause other issues in your performance at work.

Things you can do to make it better

Some changes that are simple to do may improve the symptoms, as well as prevent any new problems

These can be like:

Cutting the glare

The surrounding light should be changed to reduce any effect it may have on the screen of your computer. When light casts glare from a window nearby, you should move the monitor or close the curtains. You can also request that the employer install overhead lights that are dimmer when it’s very bright. Additionally, you can use a lamp placed on the desk with shading that is moveable to cast even light across the desk or get a monitor glare filter.

Rearrange the desk

The monitor’s position that will be best for you, should be slightly below the level of your eyes, which means between twenty to twenty-eight inches from the face. It mustn’t be necessary for you to strain your eyes or stretch your neck to see on your screen. Next to the monitor, you can place a stand to hold the materials that you may be typing from. This can help that you won’t need looking up and down when you type.

Your eyes need a break

It’s important to follow the rule of 20-20-20. Every twenty minutes you should take your eyes off the screen and try to look at anything about twenty feet from you for close to twenty seconds. Make sure to blink very often for keeping the eyes moist, and when they feel a bit dry use eye drops.

Computer settings can be tweaked

You won’t need to keep the computer on presets that was installed by the factory when it feels uncomfortable. The font size, brightness, and contrast can be adjusted to suit your needs.

Ensure that you go regularly for eye exams, plus keep all prescriptions available at all times. Speak to the doctor if you experience problems, you may need contact lenses or glasses.