Thursday, March 12, 2009

Computer Vision Syndrome

Save Your Vision Month

People who sit in front of a computer for long periods of time often encounter a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.  Headaches, neck strain, backaches and wrist pain are common, but, sadly, the most prevalent symptoms of prolonged computer use-eye strain, blurred vision and dry eye-are often overlooked. In fact, eye and vision problems are the most frequently reported health care problems among computer users.

Computer Vision Syndrome:

These symptoms contribute to computer vision syndrome, which the American Optometric Association defines as "the complex of eye and vision problems related to near work that are experienced during or related to computer use."  Sitting at a computer generally causes a person to look straight ahead for long stretches, work in a dry office or home environment, and to blink less often.  These factors can lead to vision problems.  Additionally, computer use requires specific vision skills, which add further demands to the visual system and contribute to eye and vision discomfort.  These skills include:

  • Ocular motility- the ability of the eyes to move in various positions.
  • Accommodation- the ability of the eyes to focus clearly at various distances.
  • Vergence- The ability to move the eyes in (convergence) or out (divergence).

A queston to ask yourself:  Is Your Work Station Properly Arranged?

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