Computers & Eye Disease

As computers become ubiquitous in both the home and the office, the number of computer-related syndromes and diseases is growing--and the eyes are certainly not spared the potentially damaging effects of long hours in front of a laptop. If you use your computer for more than two hours a day and frequently suffer headaches, tired eyes and blurred vision during or after computer use, you are probably experiencing some degree of computer vision syndrome. More seriously, heavy computer usage has been linked to glaucoma.

Significance

• Tiny points of light called pixels create images and words on a computer screen, instead of the denser points of pigments in printed images and characters. The eyes and brain react differently to viewing onscreen images than they do printed materials. Pixels are brightest in the center and fade out at the edges, making it harder for the eyes to focus. The eyes constantly tend to drift toward their default level of focus, called the "resting point of accommodation." They then have to strain to bring their focus back to the necessary levels. This constant flexing of the eye muscles lead to fatigue and strain.

Types

• Computer vision syndrome encompasses a range of eye problems and symptoms caused by prolonged computer usage. Symptoms include dry, itchy or red eyes; blurred vision; headaches; back aches and neck aches. Usually unsuitable lighting or other environmental conditions trigger the symptoms of computer vision syndrome. People who wear glasses or contacts are also 71% more likely to suffer computer vision syndrome, according to Penn Medicine's Scheie Eye Institute.

  The BBC reports that a study by Dr Masayuki Tatemichi, from Toho University School of Medicine, links heavy computer use to increased risk of glaucoma. Glaucoma results from increased fluid pressure in the back of the eye, which compresses the nerves and can possibly lead to blindness.

Prevention/Solution

• Reducing glare and harsh reflections on the computer screen will alleviate the need to squint and help the eyes to focus better. Moving the computer screen to at or just beyond arms length also eases eye strain. If you are referring to books or other printed materials while using your computer, keep them as close to the screen as possible. The less you have to refocus your eyes from screen to paper, the better. Reduce strain on the eyes, neck and back as much as possible with good posture: sit with your feet flat on the floor, knees bent at a right angle, back supported by the backrest of your chair and elbows resting on the arm rests. Head should be tilted down slightly to look at the screen. Most importantly, take frequent breaks to stretch your body and give your eyes a rest.

Proper Use of Contacts and Glasses

• Improper usage of contacts and eye glasses is thought to increase the risks of computer-related eye damage. If you suffer from any of the symptoms of computer vision syndrome and you wear glasses or contacts, consider seeing your ophthalmologist to make sure you don't need an change in your prescription. Conversely, if you don't use optical aids yet,you might want to make an appointment to find out if you should start wearing glasses or contact lenses.

  If you wear contact lenses, remember to blink frequently while using the computer to keep your eyes moist. If you wear glasses, make sure your specs fit properly and sit well on your face.

Warning

• Protect your eyes by taking frequent breaks during prolonged computer work.

  There is no cure for glaucoma, but the disease can be treated and controlled if diagnosed in the early stages. Your ophthalmologist can detect glaucoma before you notice any symptoms, so if you use computers frequently you should be extra dilligent about scheduling regular eye check ups.

  Computer vision syndrome is not known to cause any permanent eye damage, but it can be uncomfortable and reduce productivity, so take the steps necessary to make longs hours staring at the screen as safe as possible for your eyes.