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Are You Having Eye
Trouble — Could It Be CVS?
Using a computer or video display terminal for long periods of time can
put a person at risk for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), which affects the
hands and wrists and at risk for Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), which
affects the eyes.
There is little evidence that a computer screen will permanently damage
vision. However, one or more of the following symptoms may occur after
using the computer for a period of time: eye strain; dry, irritated
eyes; blurred or double vision; eye pain; glare sensitivity; periodic
blurred near vision or occasional blurred distance vision; slowness in
changing the focus; contact lens discomfort; as well as headaches; neck,
shoulder and back pain and other musculoskeletal discomforts.
If you suffer from one or more of the above symptoms, look for possible
causes, such as
- blinking less — can cause excess of evaporation and dry eye.
- having minor problems like eye coordination and focusing that only
show up when using a computer.
- eyes being worked too hard because of a small computer typeface,
- glare from nearby lights or windows and the monitor may be placed
higher than is natural for your eyes.
- people over 40 with reading glasses or bifocals often run into
problems when the distance is set for reading books at about 16 inches
while the distance for computer screens is set for approximately 24
inches away.
For prevention or some relief from CVS, try these various tips:
- Position your monitor 16 to 30 inches away from your eyes, four to
eight inches lower than eye level, so you are looking slightly down
towards the screen.
- Be sure that light sources don’t shine in your eyes or on the
screen.
- To avoid glare, consider installing a glare screen or a three-sided
hood on your computer.
- Use a large enough typeface. Try different fonts and background
colors for easy reading.
- Adjust the contrast on your monitor for comfort.
- Blink more often. As a reminder, place a note on your monitor.
- Take short breaks — look away from the screen or close your eyes
slowly for a few seconds.
- Use artificial tears to relieve eye strain and tired eyes.
- If over 40 and wear bifocals, a pair of computer glasses may be
needed. Don’t forget to have lenses UV tinted.
The ISPB recommends eye examinations on a regular basis. Remember
problems of CVS can usually be alleviated by good eye care and/or by
changes in the work place. Consider using artificial tears for dry eyes
and purchasing a pair of computer glasses. Most symptoms clear up after a
few hours away from the computer.
The Visionary ,
published as a service of the Illinois Society for the Prevention of
Blindness,
is available upon request. The information contained
in this issue,
taken from sources considered to be
accurate,
does not replace the need for professional eye care
consultations and treatments.
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