Can computers harm my vision?

Question: Can computers harm my vision?

I work at a computer every day. Can staring at a computer for several hours harm my vision?

Answer: While using a computer won't cause serious damage to your eyes or vision, computer users often complain of symptoms such as eyestrain, headaches, fatigue, dry eyes, and focusing problems. Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms caused by prolonged computer use. Symptoms appear because the eyes and brain react differently to words on a computer screen than they do to printed text. These symptoms are not caused by the computer screen itself, but rather by the conditions surrounding the computer screen, such as improper lighting or placement of the computer. However, a pre-existing eye problem may sometimes be the cause, as well as wearing the wrong prescription in your eyeglasses or contact lenses.

If you are having trouble with your eyes while using a computer, you should consider having a comprehensive eye exam. (The American Optometric Association recommends having a thorough eye exam each year, as early detection of some eye diseases can prevent permanent vision loss.) The following tips can help ease your symptoms of computer vision syndrome:

• Consider purchasing a pair of computer glasses, special glasses that are made with lens coatings and tints designed to filter glare and help the eyes relax and focus
• Blink more often
• Use artificial tears for dry or irritated eyes
• Reduce screen glare by adjusting light levels
• Increase font size on your computer screen
• Take frequent, short breaks

In today's world, computers are a way of life. As the number of people working on computers on a daily basis continues to increase, so does the number of people suffering from computer-related vision problems. It may take some trial and error to get it right, but computer vision symptoms can usually be controlled.

_Source:

American Optometric Association. Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). AOA, 2006-09.