In our computer-driven business world, the chance that anyone can go a day without looking at a computer screen are every slim. For individuals who spend the majority of their day working on computers, vision issues can worsen; especially for those over the age of 40. Time at the computer is important for your profession, but it doesn’t have to cost you your vision or your comfort.
Although people with progressive lenses can still see their computer screens, they often suffer from what is called computer vision syndrome. Symptoms of computer vision syndrome include neck and upper back pain, temporary blurred vision, eye fatigue, eye strain, headaches and dry, red eyes.
Another issue many people who work with computers face is presbyopia, the inability to focus on objects near the eye. This makes it more difficult to read or use the computer. Presbyopia is a natural part of aging, just as wrinkles in the skin appear as we age. People with presbyopia tend to hold reading materials at arm’s length in order to see, have blurred vision at previously normal reading distances and experience headaches and fatigue after reading screens or materials at close ranges.
There a several lenses that are made specifically for individuals who wear corrective lenses and work with computers daily.
- Normal Progressive Lens – made for no line bifocals, this lens is designed to provide a large area for distance vision.
- Intermediate and Near Lenses – These provide smaller correctional portions on the lens.
- Computer Lens – Sometimes referred to as “office lenses” these provide vision correction without distance prescription and instead offer an intermediate area.
Outside of correctional lenses, there are other ways you can ease the strain of computer screen time on your eyes during your work day:
- Use low lighting in your office to avoid glares on the computer screen.
- Sit in a conforming office chair with back and arm support.
- Rest your eyes by focusing in the distance for 20 seconds after every 20 minutes spent looking at your computer screen.
- Locate your screen approximately four or five inches below your line of vision and at least 20 to 30 inches away from your face.
Studies have shown that between 50 and 90 percent of those who work on computers experience some type of vision problem related to computer vision syndrome. Left untreated, individuals are at risk of potential long-term vision problems. Thankfully, making the proper adjustments to your working environment like the suggestions above and scheduling an appointment with an eye specialist can ensure your vision safety and comfort.