Many people spend numerous hours a day sitting in front of a computer, either for work, play or both. As a result, some computer users have eye problems, often called computer vision syndrome. Awareness of the eye problems caused by computer use may help prevent the condition, as well as aid in diagnosis and treatment.
Irritation
One of the most common complaints with computer vision syndrome is irritation. A computer user, whether playing a game, browsing the Internet or working on a project, may not blink as often as he needs to. This causes the surface of the eye to dry out and feel irritated. Redness and a burning sensation are common complaints with dry eye. To prevent irritation, the computer user may use artificial tears, an over-the-counter eye drop found in most drug stores. Using the drops before computer use and periodically over the course of the time spent on the computer, may help alleviate the irritation.
Blurred Vision
Computer vision syndrome may also cause blurry vision. This may result from surface dryness, and will improve with the use of artificial tears. However, for some people, a glasses prescription designed specifically for computer use may greatly improve vision while working on the computer, says the Scheie Eye Institute at the University of Pennsylvania. In order to determine the proper prescription, the computer user should measure the distance between his eyes and the computer screen and give this measurement to the eye doctor. Once the doctor checks for an eye glass prescription, he will use the distance measurement between the user and the monitor to design a prescription for that particular distance.
Glare
Glare from the monitor may cause an ache in the eyes, which may lead to a headache. To prevent conditions that will induce this light sensitivity, a person may want to consider adjusting the lighting in a room, adjusting the contrast on the monitor or placing a glare filter over the screen, says the Scheie Eye Institute at the University of Pennsylvania. Periodic breaks from the computer may also help with glare and eye comfort. Glare may be causing a problem if a computer user notices improvement in eye comfort when he places his hands above his eyes, like a visor.
