Methods to Avoid Eyestrain
Eyestrain is the most common weariness that most computer users
all over the world experience. A number of symptoms associated
with eyestrain have been experienced and proved worldwide. Let's
have a look at some of the symptoms related to vision here:
** Visual fatigue
** Blurred or double vision
** Burning and watering eyes
** Headaches and frequent changes in prescription glasses
This is now called under the nickname, computer vision syndrome
or which the American Optometric Association defines, C.V.S as
"A complex of eye and vision problems which are experienced
during and related to computer use".
There is a basic problem with the prolonged viewing of computer
screens. The nature of screen characters and images necessitates
subtle but continual refocusing. If one has to regularly switch
the attention between a close screen and more distant workspace
objects things become more complicated. C.V.S results from this
change in dynamics.
Another cause is that the average person blinks approximately 4
times per minute, far less than the natural rate of 22 blinks
per minute. This lower blink rate causes eye moisture to
evaporate, resulting in a "dry eye" condition. The symptoms of
dry eye are sensations such as itching, burning, blurring, heavy
eyelids, fatigue and double vision.
There is no evidence yet that computer work causes permanent eye
damage. But the temporary discomfort that may occur can reduce
productivity, cause lost work time, and reduce job satisfaction
and self-confidence of the user.
In most cases eyestrain results from visual fatigue or glare
from bright windows or strong light sources, light reflecting
off the display screen, or poor display screen contrast.
Some basic actions you can take to avoid eyestrain are assuring
your blinking more often than normal, reducing glare by altering
your workspace lighting, adjusting contract and brightness on
your monitor for clarity and comfort, adjust the height of the
monitor to level the top with your line of sight, and maintain
good workspace ergonomics to eliminate any straining. There are
may steps to relieve this common problem and I have only listed
a few examples. As always be aware of your surroundings and how
they are affecting your health, especially your eyesight as it
is and irreplaceable commodity.