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 Preventing Eyestrain from Computers |
Take a break
Eyestrain is a common symptom for people using a computer or Video Display Terminal (VDT). If your work involves heavy use of a VDT, remember to take a short break every now and then. Looking intently at near objects for extended periods of time puts strain on the muscles of the eyes, including the focusing muscles inside the eye and the ones that bring the eyes together to look at the target. Taking a regular break will actually increase your productivity, reduce errors, and contribute to your comfort at the terminal. Every 20 minutes, try to take a break and look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. The key is to take these short rests before you feel the strain, resulting in your being able to work longer without eyestrain. Also remember to have a complete eye checkup about once a year to ensure optimal health.
Proper Working Environment
To minimize eyestrain resulting from working with a computer, the environment plays a very important role. You should check your work area for sources of glare that is reflected on your computer screen. This may be a window behind your desk or any other sources of light. The glare reflected off the monitor can make you squint and strain your facial muscles, and cause discomfort and decrease your endurance.
Repositioning your monitor or using curtains, blinds, light grids or special anti-glare screens may eliminate these reflections and reduce the chance of eyestrain. Room lighting is also very important. Too much or too little light can actually increase eyestrain, again by making you squint to see.
Proper Working Distance
Inappropriate working distances can increase the likelihood of getting eyestrain from using computers. The ideal distance from your eyes to the screen will vary with your physique, posture characteristics, workstation design and any visual problems you may have.
Generally, a bigger screen is better, because you can put it further away and reduce the strain on the near-focusing muscles in the eyes. Viewing angle is also important in creating a strain-free working condition. The ideal viewing angle is 10 to 20 degrees below your eye level. If possible, place your copy document at the same level as the screen to avoid awkward and excessive head or eye movements. |
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The Eyes and Refractive Errors 
