Are Computers Hazardous to your Health?

Nov 21, 2001 11:45 AM

Eye Problems

Q: Tell me about the vision problems associated with computer work.

A: The most common health complaints among computer operators involve eye problems. Indeed the American Optometric Association has coined a name for the complaints: computer vision syndrome.

These complaints include: headaches; tired and aching eyes; burning, itching or watering eyes; blurred vision; increased sensitivity to light; and temporary nearsightedness. Many computer workers find that they need glasses for the first time or have to change prescriptions more frequently.

Q: What causes these eye problems?

A: Glare on the computer screen, poor lighting and poor screen quality (fuzzy or flickering images; inability to control contrast and brightness) may contribute to the development of eye strain. Eye strain also may result from continuously focusing on the screen or from looking back and forth repeatedly between the screen and a document placed at a different viewing distance. Eyes may become dry and irritated because people don’t blink as often when looking at a computer monitor as they do when reading or handling everyday tasks.

Q: What can I do to protect my eyes?

A: To protect your eyes, you should:

• Reduce general office lighting by 50 percent for computer work. Select lower-intensity bulbs for overhead lights (or remove some of the bulbs). Use a reading lamp to spotlight your document holder, but position it so it doesn’t create glare on the screen.
• To avoid screen glare, position your monitor so it is perpendicular to the windows or other major light sources. Adjust the window shades. As a last resort, purchase a glass or plastic glare screen for the monitor. (Avoid mesh filters; they can blur the image and reduce overall brightness.) Clean the screen frequently with an anti-static cloth.
• Adjust the monitor and document holder so copy and screen are an equal distance from your eyes. Some experts suggest tilting the screen slightly, like a book, so you can look down at it from an angle of 10 to 20 degrees.
• Adjust monitor contrast and brightness controls so you can read the screen easily and images do not flicker. Monitors that can’t be adjusted should be repaired or replaced.
• Rest your eyes frequently by closing them briefly. Every 15 minutes or so, look away from the screen and focus briefly on the most distant object you can see.

Q: What do I need to know about eye exams and glasses?

A: Have your eyes checked before you begin using a computer and regularly thereafter. Find out if your doctor is aware of the American Optometric Association guidelines for eye exams for computer operators.

Consider getting glasses specifically for computer use that are adjusted to the viewing distance between your eyes and the screen, rather than the standard reading distance.

Bifocals can be a problem for computer operators because people who wear them instinctively tilt their heads up in order read the screen; this can result in neck and upper body pain. If you normally wear bifocals, you may find a full-glass pair of reading glasses more appropriate for computer work.