By Dr. Gary Goberville
Technological advances create incredible new solutions…but cause new difficulties as well. Modern-day computing and the Internet allow us to handle more information than ever before.
All this productivity means we spend a lot of time staring at screens; our work computers, our laptops and our smartphones. This isn’t good for our eyes. The family of vision and eye problems that arise from computer overuse is described as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). Looking at a computer screen is different from reading printed pages, and often makes our eyes work harder. Glare and reflections, low contrast and poor definition make text difficult to read. The way we interact with computer monitors and digital “pages” differs from how we read and write on paper. This can cause eye problems leading to: • Blurred vision • Dry and irritated eyes • Eye strain • Headaches. When you have your annual eye exam, talk to your eye doctor about these symptoms, expecting them to explore for clarity, focus, alignment, and movement issues.
Reduce the problems leading to CVS by alleviating the stresses caused by prolonged computer use. Treatment, prevention and the following tips can help protect and improve your eyesight:
• Our eyes naturally look out and downward. Position your computer monitor so the center of
your screen is a few inches below eye level, and 20 to 28 inches from your eyes.
• Adjust your lighting – Give yourself ample lighting, but position your computer screen and your
light sources to avoid glare.
• A glare-free filter over your screen can help reduce glare from surrounding light sources.
• Take breaks and blink frequently – Rest your eyes for 15 minutes every two hours, and allow your eyes to refocus by looking around the room every 20 minutes. Blinking keeps your eyes moist and lowers your chances for dry eyes. You can use this free screen recorder for windows 10 to record anything and watch the recording after you rest your eyes.
Your eyes work hard for you, so give yourself the rest and support your need for productive, healthy eyes. When in doubt, ask to chat with your eye doctor here at Eye Site Vision.
Dr. Gary Goberville, Optometric Physician
Eye Site Vision Center, 2344 N. University Dr. Coral Springs
954-344-3937 • www.eyesitevision.com