Computer Vision Syndrome

Health Guides
Computer Vision Syndrome
Eye Care

Your eyes are dry and stinging, and your head is pounding. Just another rough day at the office? Or could your computer screen be the culprit? Sore eyes and headaches are just two symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). CVS is a relatively common problem occurring in approximately 70-75 per cent of computer users.

Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome

CVS can result in one or more of the following symptoms:

Uncomfortable, painful, irritated eyes

Blurred vision

Headaches: vision-related headaches often occur toward the front of the head.

Double vision

Dry, irritated eyes

Neck/shoulder/back aches from leaning forward to see better.

What you can do to feel better

Computer vision syndrome is both preventable and treatable. Whether or not you currently suffer from this condition, follow these suggestions to ensure long-term comfort and vision health.

Get regular eye exams to determine if you need corrective or specialized lenses.

Ensure your monitor is located directly in front of you, approximately arm’s length away. Remember, the further away the monitor is, the bigger it should be. For most workstations, a 17-inch to 19-inch monitor is appropriate.

Consider a flat screen monitor. This will eliminate flicker and help minimize glare.

Increase the font size. Use at least 12 point, larger if it feels better.

Evaluate your lighting. When reading from the computer you require a lower level of room light because the computer monitor emits its own light.

Control outside light with blinds to prevent glare.

Ensure that humidity in your office is at 40 per cent and consider using a humidifier to maintain this level. Your eyes require moisture, and we tend to blink less frequently when looking at a computer monitor, thereby moisturizing the eye less often.

Give your eyes a workout

Finally, here are some exercises you can do to keep your eyes healthy at work:

Blink frequently to help keep your eyes moist

Rest your eyes in darkness for approximately one minute. Close your eyes and cover with them with the palms of your hands.

Don’t stare at your screen for more than 20 minutes at a time. Take a break and stare at something in the distance for at least 20 seconds to exercise your vision.