As people use computers increasingly more often at home and in the workplace, the risk of developing associated health problems also increases. The repetitive nature and prolonged concentration required to view computer screens for long periods of time leads to strain and stress on the eyes. Although such problems are frequently temporary, computer users must take precautions to avoid lingering eyesight difficulties, as well as decreased productivity and increased errors.
Significance
Characters on a computer screen are physically different from characters in print, which makes reading text on a computer screen more demanding for eyes, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA). For example, characters on a computer screen are often less precise and sharp than those on a page, and the degree of contrast between characters and the background is frequently lower on a computer screen. Such factors place extra strain on the eyes as they adjust to perceiving information in a computer-screen environment.
Other Risk Factors
Additional factors that contribute to eye problems resulting from using a computer screen include how good a person's eyesight is, how much time he spends looking at a computer screen and the number of viewing hazards in the workspace, reports the AOA and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Poor eye coordination and uncorrected or improperly corrected pre-existing vision conditions, such as astigmatism or farsightedness, are examples of eyesight problems that can increase the likelihood of vision problems related to computer-screen use. Workspace hazards include inadequate lighting, a poorly placed computer monitor and looking at a computer screen for long periods of time without a break.
Eye Problems
Computer-related eye problems include blurry vision, dry eyes, eyestrain and afterimages when looking away from the computer screen. The AOA classifies such symptoms as Computer Vision Syndrome, which also includes headaches and pain in the neck and shoulder. Eyestrain, or eye fatigue, may lead to additional symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic, such as difficulty switching focus between the computer screen and physical documents, double vision, increased light sensitivity and burning, itching or sore eyes.
Children
Although viewing computer screens carries similar risks for children and adults, certain factors make children more likely to experience eye-related problems, according to the AOA. For instance, children tend to adapt to uncomfortable environments, such as a computer screen with glare, and continue working in them. The same circumstances would prompt many adults to make appropriate adjustments, such as altering lighting. Children also tend to continue participating in enjoyable activities for long stretches of time without breaks, despite discomfort. Moreover, computer screens positioned for adult users often require adjustment to ensure smaller-size children view them at the recommended 15-degree downward angle, which children may overlook or not realize.
Eye Safety
Proper use of computer screens reduces the risk of related eye problems. Have your eyesight checked and use appropriate corrective aids, such as eyeglasses. Blink often and rest eyes by looking away from the computer screen at least 15 minutes during every 2-hour session. Place computer monitors approximately 20 to 40 inches away, with the computer screen directly ahead of you or no more than 35 degrees to one side. The top of the monitor should be about 15 degrees below your eye level when looking straight ahead. Tilting the computer screen at a 10-to-20 degree upward angle also increases the clarity of on-screen items, although an anti-glare screen may be required to reduce glare from lighting above.
