Dr. Cristina Lopes, an eye doctor
at Center for Sight in Fall River helped us understand the relationship between
computer eyestrain, computer use and video terminal display use. “Excessive
computer use or looking at video displays or even computer game screens for
periods of time can cause patients to experience eyestrain,” explained Dr.
Lopes. There are some important things to know about computer and video display
terminal use, your eyes and eyestrain. “Staring at your computer screen,
smartphone, video game or other digital devices for long periods won’t cause
permanent eye damage, but your eyes may feel dry and tired. Although there are
no long-term studies at this time, we do not believe there is any reason to be
concerned that 3-D movies, TV or video games will damage the eyes or visual
system,” she explained.
Normally, you blink about 18 times a minute, but only blink
half that often while using computers and other digital screen devices, whether
for work or play. Reading, writing or other intensive “near work” can also
cause eyestrain of a similar nature.
What Should I
Do for Computer Eyestrain?
- It is helpful in avoiding computer related eyestrain if you first position yourself about 24” from the screen you are viewing and with your eye gaze is slightly downward. It also helps to reduce glare from the screen by lighting the area properly and if possible use a screen filter if needed.
- It may seem silly but post a note that says “Blink!” on the computer as a reminder.
- Use the “20-20-20” rule. Every 20 minutes, shift your eyes to look at an object at least 20 feet away, for at least 20 seconds.
- It is also helpful to use artificial tears to refresh your eyes when they feel dry. Make sure that you take regular breaks from computer work, and be sure to get enough sleep at night.
- If you wear contacts for the computer screen it’s important that you use and care for them properly in order to avoid eye irritation, swelling, infection and vision problems. Also, give your eyes a break and wear your glasses instead of your contacts sometime.
- Consider a special prescription and lens coating for computer use to help manage eyestrain and fatigue.
If you wish to learn more about computers, vision, eyestrain
and your eyes please call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.
Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406 Fall River,
Massachusetts 02720 at 508-730-2020 for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island.
