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Health Hazards of Computer Monitor Screens

Health hazards associated with computer usage, particularly the computer monitor, have long been a concern. Proper monitor positioning, posture and ergonomics minimize damage to your body. While limiting the time you spend on the computer is the best method to prevent associated health hazards, several companies make products to prevent glare, promote good posture and even negate the effects of radiation. This is good news, since many people must spend hours each day on the computer.

  1. Musculoskeletal Disorders, Fatigue and Pain

    • Improper positioning of the computer monitor can cause musculoskeletal disorders, which can affect the body's joints, muscles, nerves, tendons and ligaments. Monitors that are too high, too far away or off to the side cause users to twist their body and neck or lean forward. Neck injuries and neck strain are common health hazards of incorrectly positioned monitors, although the back, shoulders and arms can also suffer damage. To prevent musculoskeletal disorders, body fatigue and pain while using a computer, position your body so that it is neutrally aligned. Align the monitor and your chair so that you can sit naturally, looking straight ahead at the monitor and avoid twisting your body or turning your neck. Keep your body and joints neutrally and naturally aligned without straining to see the screen.

    Eyestrain and Fatigue

    • When users place monitors at an improper distance, they may strain their eyes to see on-screen items that are too far away. Likewise, when the monitor is too close, the users' eyes must work harder to focus and become fatigued. Glare on the computer screen can also cause eyestrain and eye fatigue. Another cause of eyestrain is looking at the monitor for too long. Many users do not blink as often when staring at the screen, which leads to dryness and fatigue. The name associated with eye problems related to prolonged computer usage is "computer vision syndrome." To minimize CVS, position the monitor at an appropriate distance (20 to 40 inches away), eliminate glare, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes minutes and try to remember to blink more frequently when using the monitor.

    Headaches

    • Fatigued muscles and strained eyes can cause headaches. When neck muscles tighten or when nerves get pinched from improper body positioning, tension headaches can occur.

    Radiation

    • Older cathode ray tube monitors emit low levels of radiation. Studies have not established health effects from exposure to this radiation except for damage to the eyes. Radiation can damage the cornea and lens, which may lead to glaucoma and vision damage. Newer liquid crystal display monitors emit less radiation. The safest thing to do is limit exposure, but you can also purchase a product that negates radiation risk. Eating more antioxidants and vitamin C are also preventative measures.

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