Computer Vision Syndrome - Ten Ways to Prevent Computer Vision Syndrome

The computer is the most captivating device of the digital world, but its constant and prolonged use develops major ocular complications, often termed as computer vision syndrome (CVS). It's a temporary state, resulting from non-stop gaze on a computer screen for prolonged periods of time. A large fraction of computer addicts have prevalent vision problems and tend to seek medical attention. CVS term covers a whole range of eye related ailments faced by computer users.

According to the latest studies, eye strain and other vexing visual symptoms occur in 50 to 90 percent in those who repeatedly use computer. This is an alarming situation that may result in physical fatigue, minified productivity and augmented work errors. Modern surveys by optometrists’ reveal that approximately ten million computer users put up with computer vision syndrome problems each year.

Major signs of computer vision syndrome

The most frequent signs related with Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) are:

- Eyestrain
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Headaches
- Dry, red eyes with irritation
- Neck and shoulder muscles fatigue

Major causes of computer vision syndrome

These CVS symptoms may result due to:
- Steady stare on the computer screen
- Faulty vision
- Poor lighting
- Inappropriate viewing distances
- Wrong seating posture and other

Children and CVS

Prolonged use of computer by children greatly affects their vision, putting them at higher risk of developing computer vision syndrome. According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), parents should consider various factors that may affect children vision due to expanded computer use, adopting proper safety tips to decrease the syndrome hazards.

How is computer vision syndrome treated?

Following the next ten steps will help you get rid of computer vision syndrome:

1. According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), routine eye check ups is the most vital requirement to prevent future vision problems.

2. Use proper lightning by eliminating exterior light while keeping your working area well lit.

3. Use anti glare screens to produce a screen filter effect. Note: you don't really need this if you have a new LCD monitor.

4. Optimally adjust the brightness from your computer screen. Use a flat-panel LCD screen having anti-reflective surface instead of old-fashioned CRT screens with flickering effect.

5. Adjust the display and screen settings of your computer suitable to the work environment, making sure that text size and color are well optimized for ease.

6. While using the computer, blink your eyes frequently. Blinking helps prevent dryness and irritation by keeping eye surface moist.

7. For reducing the risk of computer syndrome and eye fatigue, follow 20-20 rule exercise, implying moving away from computer and gazing at object placed at 20 feet distance for 20 seconds.

8. To lessen the risk of computer vision syndrome, get frequent breaks, stand up, move about and stretch your neck, arms, legs, back, and shoulders to minimize strain and muscle exhaustion.

9. The best computer ergonomics tips, designed by the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), should be followed for choosing a comfortable seating posture with adjusted arm and foot support during computer work.

10. Go for professionally made eye glasses to remain comfortable during onscreen work.

Conclusion

The extent to which visual symptoms appear largely depends on the users’ visual abilities, vision disorders and on duration of computer usage. There are few computer users who suffer from its lasting affects, as signs of vision syndrome are impermanent and be gone after ceasing computer related work. Computer vision syndrome can be prevented through regular eye check up and by taking precautionary measures.