Eyestrain associated with computer use isn't thought to have serious or long-term consequences, but it's disruptive and unpleasant.
If you or your child spend more than two hours each day in front of a computer screen, you likely experience some symptoms of computer vision syndrome or CVS.
The main symptoms of CVS are - oSore, tired, burning or itching eyes oWatery eyes oDry eyes oBlurred or double vision oHeadache and sore neck oDifficulty shifting focus between monitor and paper documents in your work area oColor fringes or afterimages when you look away from the monitor Increased sensitivity to light Since this is a profession related complication, it can be treated with modifying the work area and introducing some alterations in the work habit to reduce the symptoms.
oThe computer screen should be slightly below eye level (about 20 degrees).
Copy should be at the same level as the screen.
oWrists and lower arms are parallel to the floor while working on keyboard.
oThe working chair should be comfortable with a good back support.
oSit straight on the chair with feet flat on ground, thighs parallel to ground and back erect.
oThe screen brightness and contrast should be adjusted by the operator for the maximum viewing comfort.
oThe workstation lighting should provide a 10:3 ratio: screen characters 10 times brighter than the screen background; room illumination 3 times brighter than screen background.
oEliminate glare and screen reflections by moving or tilting the computer or getting an anti-glare screen.
oTry not to face toward windows or bright light sources.
oOperators should face into an open space beyond the computer screen.
oClean the screen regularly as they attract dust.
To reduce the symptoms, there are some alterations in the work schedule that can be done.
oTake a break after every 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Get up from the workstation and walk 20 paces one side and 20 paces the other side.
Sit on your chair and close eyes for 3-4 minutes.
oConsciously blink your eyes more frequently as the blink rate is reduced with continuous work on computers causing dryness.
oUse artificial eye drops for lubricating the eye.
oIf still symptoms persist, then get an eye examination done to rule out any refractive error.
If there is one, then use corrective glasses for the same.