In the past year since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, more and more people have been working from home and spent several hours a day in front of the computer screen. Many also realised during this time that they no longer had 20/20 vision, while others began to develop something known as computer vision syndrome.
What Are The Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome?
Spending hours in front of a computer screen puts unnecessary strain on the eyes, but because computer work is part of many people’s jobs, the solution is not as simple as just turning off the screen and getting on with life. Computer vision syndrome can occur in any person, any time of their life, and can include a number of eye problems from blurred vision to eye irritation, double vision, dry, red eyes, blurred vision, neck and back pain and headaches.
Blurry vision is sometimes related to the inability of the eyes to focus a significant amount of time on a computer screen, and spending excessive time in front of the screen, could later result in dry, itchy or irritated eyes.
Will I Suffer Any Long-Term Damage?
Currently, there is no scientific evidence to support any suspicion that computer screens can cause long-term problems with vision or the eyes, but for those who do experience computer vision syndrome, it is painful or uncomfortable, to say the least. However, your work productivity can be affected if you do not do something about it.
What Should I Do When I Experience Problems With My Eyes or Vision?
Self-diagnosis is one thing, but home remedies are not going to address the problem properly. Now might be the right time to consult an optometrist for a proper eye test. Prescription glasses, based on scientific facts, may just be your saving grace.
What Can I Do To Improve The Situation?
Most eye strain, according to experts, is caused by bright light inside the office or bright light from the outside. If you work all day in front of a computer screen, it is important to make some slight adjustments to ensure you have ambient lighting, which is about half as bright as what is usually found in most offices.
Also, try to avoid excessive shine. Gloss on finished surfaces such as windows and walls that cause reflections on your computer screen is one of the things that can lead to eye strain. You may want to use an anti-glare screen on your monitor, and if you work from home, consider painting bright, white walls a darker shade with a matte finish.
To prevent eye dryness, it is important to blink your eyes regularly while working in front of the computer screen. You can also reduce your chances of computer vision syndrome by taking regular breaks and moving away from the computer screen.
You can also benefit from having your optometrist change your prescription glasses to create personal computer glasses, for optimal comfort in front of your computer. With an updated prescription, you can order your glasses online from us. We have a wide choice of designer prescription glasses and frames to choose from and we also cater for those on a tight budget.