Computers have become a necessity for every organization. Computers have increased the efficiency and productivity of organizations. However, the overuse of computers have given birth to Computer Vision Syndrome.
What is CVS?
Many employees spend most of the time working on the computer. Computer images are a combination of tiny dots and pixels. Therefore, there is no specific image for the eye to focus on. This creates the need for constant focusing on frequently shifting images, hence resulting in stress. When working on the computer, the eye blinking rate reduces by 70%. This increases the stress on the eyes.
The short term effects of the CVS are dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, eye fatigue, excessive watering, complementary coloured lines, double vision, and neck/shoulder pain. The long term effects of CVS are reflex photosensitivity(sensitivity to reflective light emitting surfaces like computer screens), photophobia(unusual eye sensitivity to light), slowness in changing near or far focus, blood shot eyes, dim vision.
The computer screen is not the only cause for CVS. Poor lighting, reflective screens, incorrect seating postures, and improper monitor placement also contribute to CVS.
Tips to prevent CVS:
- Keep computer screens 20 - 26 inches away from your eyes.
- Adjust lighting to minimize glare.
- Use anti-glare screens.
- Take a break every 15 minutes and focus on object away from the screen.
- Keep top of the computer below your eye level.
- Use eye drops that reduce irritation and dryness of eyes.
Eye Care For Computer Users
Most of our work is done on computers, and there is usually no escape from it. It is a visually intensive task and, unfortunately, our work pressure and lifestyles do not give us the opportunity to be kind to our eyes.
Some of the simple and valuable tips in handy,
Exercise Your Eyes
Our regular work hours should be infused with short breaks. During such breaks, a small and easy exercise can be done:
"First, blink your eyes several times. While you keep your eyes closed, roll your eyeballs both clockwise and anticlockwise and take a deep breath. Gradually open your eyes while releasing your breath. This exercise lasts for a minute and you can repeat it three times before getting back to work."
It serves as a good workout for the eyes.
Look Away
While working for long hours, look at distant objects either in your office or outside. looking at a distant object and then returning to your task helps your eyes focus better. Try taking such visual breaks for about 5 to 10 minutes every hour.
Palming
Sit straight at your workstation and rub your palms against each other till you feel them warm. The warmth of your palms helps soothe and relax tired eyes. Then, lightly cup your eyes with your palms and relax for 60 seconds. Count the seconds in your mind. Repeat this exercise 2 or 3 times whenever your eyes feel tired, or as often as you want.
Splash Water On Your Face
During breaks, splash water on your face while closing your eyes. This has an overall relaxing effect and helps you feel refreshed.
Take A Walk
After you are done with lunch, take a stroll outside your office for a few minutes. this will give your eyes a much-needed break and get them some fresh air.
Use Tea Bags
Keep 2 used tea bags in the refrigerator before you leave for work. Once you are home, place the tea bags on your eyes for a few minutes as you relax. This not only soothes tired eyes, but also reduces puffiness.
Drink Water
Drink plenty of water. It helps reduces puffiness. When a person is dehydrated, especially in air-conditioned office, the body starts storing water as a defence mechanism. This adds to puffiness around the eyes.
Eat Healthy
Incorporate Vitamins A, C and E on a daily basis. Eat Citrus fruits, green leafy veggies, tomatoes, spinach, poultry and dairy products. Pack a box of chopped carrots, cucumber and fresh and munch in-between meals at the office.
Know Your Contact Lenses
Ideally, a person who uses lenses should wear it for not more than 10-12 hours a day and occasionally for 14 hours a day. Never wear your contact lenses while swimming. The pool water houses various micro-organisms as there are several people using it. This may lead to fungal infections in the eyes. In addition the chlorine in the water can damage your contact lenses.
Lenses are like sponge, making them susceptible to attracting dirt.
Wear Anti-glare Glasses While Driving Or At WorkAnti-glare glasses are mainly used for focused light -- such as full beam car headlights -- and serve well for night driving. These can also be used while working on the computer.
Using a pair of anti-glare glasses while working on a computer can reduce the strain on the eyes to a certain extent. If you wear contact lenses, wear a pair of zero powered anti-glare glasses for the same purpose.
Great blog!
ReplyDeleteIf you interested in modern agriculture and farming, then I will invite you to visit my farming blog.
Health and Diseases
Methods of Modern Farming