Electronic Screens and Eye Strain

How many of you are using your computer or electronic screen for several hours during the day? I certainly am. After a while do you find that your eyes feel tired and irritated? Sometimes after a lengthy time of being on the computer I notice that I have trouble focusing, my eyes feel really tired, they begin to burn and then start watering. When that happens I just have to close them for a couple of minutes to get relief

Did you know that computer eye fatigue has become so prevalent that it now has been given the name of Computer Vision Syndrome? Of course it's not just the result of long hours on a computer - it can be any electronic screen - such as a CCTV, television, iPad or Kindle Fire. It's the strain of constant, focused close up vision that stresses the eyes.

The American Optometric Association defines Computer Vision Syndrome as "... the complex of eye and vision problems related to near work which are experienced during or related to computer use."

Computer Eye Strain Symptoms

Our eyes are not meant to be used for constant, close-up or near vision work. Our natural tendency is to stare at the computer for long periods of time and to blink less often. These computer habits lead to symptoms like dry eye, irritated and red eyes, blurred vision, and burning, watering eyes.

Using our eyes for distance vision - like looking at a building that sits across the street or at a tree that is in full bloom - doesn't strain our vision. That's why it is important to take frequent breaks. Get up from your computer or video monitor and move around. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms of computer eye fatigue reduce the amount of time you spend at the computer or on electronic screens.

Other helpful tips are to blink more often and longer, perform eye exercises such as palming and adjust the brightness and glare of your computer monitor. If your eye symptoms do not go away be sure to call your eye doctor for an eye exam.

For more tips on preventing and helping with computer eye fatigue go to:

Tips to Reduce Computer Eye Strain and Computer Vision Syndrome

Leslie Degner, RN, BSN

Better Health for Better Vision

WebRN-MacularDegeneration.com

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