Countering Computer Vision Syndrome

Roughly 10 million people visit eye doctors every year for computer-related vision problems. With computers and hand-held devices so commonplace, is “computer vision syndrome,” as these problems are collectively known, simply a fact of life? Experts say no. Here’s what can be done to alleviate the pain and strain.

According to a recent American Optometric Association survey, nearly three-fourths of computer users admit that they don’t take computer breaks as often as they should, and 10 percent never take breaks. No wonder so many (50 -90% of video display terminal workers) suffer from tired, dry eyes, blurred vision, eyestrain, headache and sensitivity to light—problems collectively known as “computer vision syndrome” (CVS).

In addition to eye discomfort, computer users often suffer neck and shoulder problems as well, especially bifocal wearers, who have to adopt awkward positions to see their screens clearly. Work that is visually fatiguing may result in lowered productivity, increased error rate and reduced job satisfaction. Therefore, steps should be taken to reduce the potential for development of workplace related ocular discomfort.

Vision experts explain that the eyes have to focus harder to view images on a computer screen compared to focusing on actual print, which is much clearer. As a result, an estimated 10 million people visit an eye doctor each year for computer-related eye problems. Here are steps your employees can take to prevent these problems from happening in the first place:

1. Have eyes checked regularly. Uncorrected or undercorrected farsightedness, astigmatism, presbyopia and binocular vision (eye coordination and eye focusing) problems can be major contributing factors to CVS. An eye specialist—either an optometrist or ophthalmologist—can recommend measures to reduce eyestrain, such as special computer glasses or a screen filter.
2. Blink early and often. Concentration tends to reduce the rate of blinking, leading to dry eyes. In fact, the normal blink rate is 16-20 times per minute. When working at a computer screen that rate decreases to 6-8 times a minute. Experts suggest the 20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look away form the screen or close the eyes for at least 20 seconds.
3. Lessen lighting. The brighter the lighting, the greater the eye irritation. Reduce the amount of lighting at workstations; for example, use a smaller light instead of a bright overhead light. However, older individuals will generally require more light than younger individuals to perform the same tasks comfortably. Consider installing dimmer switches to help employees control the amount of lighting around them.
4. Reduce glare. Position computer screens so windows are not directly behind them or in the worker’s field of view.
5. Evaluate the ergonomics. Viewing distances and angles used for computer work are often different from those commonly used for other reading or writing tasks and therefore place additional demands on the visual system. Stress on the eye muscles is reduced as the gaze moves downward. Therefore, the top of the screen should be below the horizontal eye level of the operator and tilted slightly away from the operator at the bottom.

These few simple measures can increase employees’ vision and comfort immeasurably—and reduce the pain and strain of computer vision syndrome. For more information regarding computer displays and eye health, visit the American Optimetric Association web site.

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