Prevent Computer Eyestrain in this Digital Age

Prevent Computer Eyestrain in this Digital Age

Computer Eyestrain
The advent of computer has sure made life so much easier. Today anything and everything can be done through the computer without moving from your chair. Whether it is communicating with friends, relatives, or even clients across the world, working, shopping, and so much more, everything is now possible through it. The smart phone another digital device is like a pocket genie which can do almost all kinds of work for you. Though quite good and useful, but it sure seems to take a toll on our health. The chief of it being eyestrain. Today right from small kids to senior adults are gazing at the computer and cell phone screen so intently that you would think, they fail to blink for missing out on something.

Symptoms of Eye Stain

With so many people, using computers throughout the day at work, eyestrain has become a major complaint among most of these people. Red eyes, twitching of the eyes, headaches, watering, eye pain, double vision, loss of focus, blurred vision, neck and shoulder pain, eye dryness and physical fatigue are all part of the problem. This is also known as the computer vision syndrome. Staring at the computer for a long time, glare, and the bright backlight of the monitor is responsible for it.


There are some ways you can lessen the strain on your eye if you happen to work long hours at the computer.

Comprehensive Eye Check Up

It is important to get an annual eye check done regularly, if you work long hours on the computer. The doctor will check the health of the eye and if there are any other problems with your vision.


Rest Your Eyes

It is important to take a few minutes break from your computer. Move away from it or if you cannot just close your eyes, lean back and relax. Do it for a few minutes each hour.


Adjust Lightings

Excessive brightness from outdoor or indoor light can strain the eye. Bright light coming from the front or the back can also be a stain. Ensure light is from either sides that is soothing to the eyes.


Upgrade Your Monitor Display

Change your old tube style monitor to LCD display. It has anti-reflective display and easier on the eye.


Reposition Your Computer

The computer screen should be kept at an arms length away. The monitor should be positioned in such a way that its centre is 4 to 8 inches below the eye, so that it does not stain your neck and eye.


Reduce Glare

Attach an anti glare screen to the monitor of the computer. It helps to adjust the contrast and brightness.


Blink More

People who work on the computer tend to blink less. Train your eyes to blink more even while working. This will minimize dryness, and in the natural production of tear film in the eye.


Artificial Lubricant

Ask your doctor to prescribe an artificial lubricant or tear drops for your eyes.


Eye Exercises

Exercising the eye everyday and this will help avoid muscle fatigue. Looking up and down, sideways, looking at the farthest object and then at your finger 30 cm away from your eyes are the exercises that will fight eye strains.


Modify Work Station

Looking at the screen and then back at a paper on the desk can strain your eye. Place a paper copy stand next to the screen, making it easy for you to work. The workstation and chair should be of proper height.


Wear Computer Glasses

Wear a pair of computer glasses. These glasses have a different focal point than reading glasses. These glasses are also tinted yellow to offset the cool blue light of the monitor.

These are but a few of the many simple tips if followed can help reduce eye strain to a great extent. Try these simple tips in between work or early in the morning, and keep your eyes healthy!

Sehat provides list of best Ophthalmologists in Hyderabad from which you can research and choose the right doctor for your condition.

Reviewed By:

Dr. Kaushal M. Bhavsar (MBBS, MD)

Assistant Professor in Pulmonary Medicine, GMERS Medical College, Ahmedabad