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Are Computer Monitors Harmful to the Eyes?

After spending a whole day sitting in front of a computer, it is common for a person to have aches and pains that he or she attributes to the computer monitor. Studies show, however, that the monitor has little to do with these physical ailments.

  1. Radiation

    • It's a misconception that computer monitors emit harmful radiation that can damage eyes. According to SecurityWorld.com, fluorescent lights give off more ultraviolet radiation than computer screens.

    Expert Insight

    • The Health Physics Society (HPS) ensures that all manufacturers of computer monitors test their products' radiation emissions and are approved as safe by the Food and Drug Administration.

    Eye damage

    • The amount of radiation a person receives from a computer monitor is not nearly high enough to cause eye damage like cataracts.

    Ergonomics

    • The eye strain people experience with computer monitors has more to do with ergonomics than the screens themselves. The position of the monitor, light of the room, location of other materials being used and body positions can affect how people feel after sitting in front of computers.

    Solutions

    • The best ways to reduce headaches and other body aches associated with computer monitors are positioning the screen so it isn't above eye level, keeping the screen clean and reducing glare by adjusting the lights.

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