Computer Eye Strain: Symptoms and Remedies

According to the American Optometrical Society 90% of computer users suffer from computer eye strain (also known ascomputer vision syndrome).

Over a period of time, excessive computer use can have cumulative negative effects including the worsening of farsightedness, nearsightedness, astigmatism, eye-focusing disorders, and poor eye coordination. In addition, prolonged periods of sitting in the same position can cause neck and shoulder stiffness, as well as stress headaches, which can then cause jaw pain (referred to TMJ or temporomandibular joint).

First, what are the symptoms of computer eye strain?

• Blurred vision
• Dizziness or nausea
• Difficulty concentrating
• Headaches
• Red, dry, or burning eyes
• Increase in nearsightedness
• Change in color perception
• Slow refocusing
• Excessive fatigue
• Neck, shoulder, and back pain
• Eye-teaming problems and/or occasional double vision

You can both prevent and treat these symptoms by changinc your habits and possibly taking some nutritional supplements.

• Breaks are very important: 2-3 minutes every 15-20 minutes, 5 minutes every 30 minutes, or 10 minutes every hour.
• Do eye exercises and acupressure massage points every hour on thecomputer For examples, visit this site: http://www.naturaleyecare.com/videos.asp
• Set up your computer correctly. The proper viewing distance is 20-24 inches. The correct viewing angle is 10 to 20 degrees from the midscreen to the top of the screen.
• Use a good monitor. Usually the higher the resolution (the more pixels) the better. Higher refresh rates (flicker speeds) are preferred, at least 70 Hz.
• Use proper posture. This includes a tucked in chin, slight curve at the neck rather than a forward head and neck, a straight upper back with only a slight roundedness, and hollow in the low back.
• Make sure overall illumination of the room is no more than three times brighter than the screen. Be aware that anti-reflection screens reduce illumination.
• Adjust screen brightness and contrast properly.
• Use a desk lamp if possible instead of an overhead light.
• Control glare from overhead lights and uncurtained windows. Use an anti-glare screen, or move your terminal to an area of limited glare.
• If you work in a cubicle, try to give it a feeling of more expansiveness by, for example, placing a mirror on one of the walls to create the illusion of more space.

There is more information on how to prevent and treat computer eyestrain here: http://www.naturaleyecare.com/eyestrain/

NaturalEye - About the Author:

Marc Grossman, Doctor of Optometry and Licensed Acupuncturist, is the founder of Natural Eye Care, Inc. He has authored five books on natural eye care and lectures nationally and internationally on holistic eye health.  Relying on over thirty years of clinical experience and the latest peer reviewed research, he offers a valuable perspective on diet, lifestyle, and nutritional supplements related to eye health and overall wellness.  Learn more about his work at http://www.NaturalEyeCare.com.