Computer users who get headaches, eye strain, dry eyes and
difficulty focusing could be suffering from a form of repetitive
strain injury of the eyes called
Computer Vision
Syndrome (CVS).
David Summers an optometrist at Melina Joy Opticians, in
Heathfield, Sussex, urged anyone who uses a computer as part of
their job to follow health and safety recommendations by taking
regular screen breaks.
"Setting a timer for taking regular screen breaks can make a
huge difference," he said. "For every 20 minutes you look at the
computer screen, look away for 20 seconds."
This helps the eyes focus on more distant objects, which is
another symptom of CVS. "People who stare at a computer screen all
day often find it difficult to focus on distant objects. Sometimes,
they find it hard to read train timetables on the platform."
Blinking regularly, using eye drops and making sure there is no
screen glare and the work area is well lit, can all help to reduce
problems with eye strain and dry eyes, he said.
Summer said people using reading glasses can now buy lenses that
allow them to work more comfortably with a computer terminal. One
example, the
Nexyma,
from German spectacle lens specialist Rodenstock, is a variable
reading/intermediate distance lens.
Tips on tackling Computer Vision Syndrome
- Take regular screen breaks
- Look away from the computer screen for 20 seconds every 20
minutes
- Blink regularly
- Use eye drops to improve eye comfort
- Ensure work area is well lit and no glare is coming off the
screen