Computers have revolutionized the way we work, and the way we conduct our lives, but they create challenges as well. Vision challenges, that is. You’re on your own when it comes to deleting that social media post before your boss sees it. However, if you find that constant computer use is starting to take a toll on your eyes, then you have found the right article.
Do you use the computer a lot during the day? Do you find that your eyes are dry, your vision is blurry, you have headaches, and the last thing you want to do is stare for another second at the computer screen? Have you heard of Computer Vision Syndrome? You might find that you have a few questions at this point, but read on and you’ll find your answers.
What are the Computer Syndrome vision symptoms?
Computer syndrome vision symptoms vary, but can include the following:
- Headaches, and neck or shoulder pain.
- Blurry, dry, or strained eyes.
- Fatigued, and irritated eyes.
What actually causes these symptoms can be more than just your computer screen. It might have something to do with the lighting in your work area, your posture, undiagnosed vision problems, ergonomics, or all of the above. One sure way to experience fewer symptoms is to use the computer less.
What if I can’t change my computer use habits?
The American Optometric Association recommends blinking to prevent dry eyes, using an anti glare screen, resting your eyes every two hours for 15 minutes, and focusing on an item in the distance every 20 minutes. However, even after following these recommendations you might find that symptoms are still occurring. Whether you need prescription glasses or not, there are computer glasses available that cut down on harsh lighting and glare, and protect the eyes by limiting the impact of air currents.
I’ve never seen my optometrist’s office carry computer glasses, where can I find them?
The Gunnar brand of glasses in particular was created to protect eyes from computers and other digital displays. You can find these glasses online from premium retailers, and in most cases you can have them ordered to your exact prescription. Even if you require one prescription for distance and one for close reading, there are Gunnar frames that accommodate progressive lenses.
Computer glasses are one excellent way to mitigate computer syndrome vision symptoms, but it is important to see your optometrist to rule out the possibility of undiagnosed vision disorders, and to learn about other strategies that you can employ to protect your eyes. In America, approximately 225 million people need corrective eyewear, so it’s important to have a regular eye exam to check for any underlying issues, and changes in prescriptions. A quick visit to your eye doctor, some slight modifications to your work area, and the use of computer glasses might prove to be sufficient in reducing unpleasant symptoms. Great references here.
