Dear Senserely Yours,
Hi! I've been getting these really bad headaches quite often. I notice
them when I'm doing my homework but not all the time. My back also gets sore
and my eyes get painful, like something is stinging it. Am I allergic to
studying? I don't feel these when I'm not studying. I'm confused. HELP!!
From,
Nick
Hi, Nick! Let me guess. You’re using a computer right now, right? Well, stop right now! But, not after you read this article first.
You're not allergic to studying. But, its possible
that you have Computer Vision Syndrome. The American Optometric Association has
defined Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) as a group of eye and vision-related problems that
result from prolonged computer use, with millions of new cases each year
(Wimalasundera, 2006).
Unfortunately, symptoms of CVS can
appear after a person uses a computer for more than 2 uninterrupted hours
a day. Also, these symptoms occur in 75% to 90% of computer users (Graney,
2011). Which is why it wouldn’t be shocking that you are exhibiting some
symptoms.
Symptoms of CVS are caused by three potential
mechanisms. First, extraocular mechanisms are those related to the muscles and
bones, such as neck stiffness, headaches, backaches and shoulder pain. Second,
accommodative mechanisms related have symptoms such as presbyopia, myopia or
nearsightedness, double vision and slowness of focus change. Third, ocular
surface mechanisms are those with symptoms such as dryness of the eyes and
redness, gritty and burning sensations in the eye. (Loh & Redy, 2008)
One of the major contributors to CVS is the video
display terminals (VDT) used in computers. Because of pixels or tiny dots in
its characters, with bright centers that decrease in brightness as it reaches
the edges, the eyes become fatigued from constantly focusing and refocusing.
This continuous accommodation along the blurred edges can lead to dryness of
the eyes (Wimalasundera, 2006).
Another contributor to CVS is refresh rate or the
number of times per minute the screens are repainted to produce an image. 75 Hz
is recommended so characters will not flicker and cause annoyance fatigue and
headaches. In fact, higher refresh rates are shown to have decreased ocular
symptoms and improve reading rate (Wimalasundera, 2006). Bad lighting of the
computer’s surrounding the area can also lead to CVS. A bright environment can
wash out the characters on screen and can create glare and reflections. These
glares causes reading time delays.
Aside from those caused by the computer itself, the
decreased eye movement and blinking can lead to the development of dry eyes, a
symptom of CVS. It is important for the eye to be hydrated and lubricated at
all times. (Kobab & Khan, 2012)
Luckily, these symptoms are only temporary and
usually go away once you stop using the computer. However, if you’re writing a
paper like me, or creating your report for work, then using the computer is
vital. Certain steps can be taken to prevent CVS and reduce the likelihood of
experiencing its symptoms.
First, make sure that the light is not too bright
for your eyes and that the computer screen doesn’t produce glares. Second, have
proper posture when using a computer. Use a chair with a backrest and make sure
that your eyes are 35-40 inches away from the computer. Also, place the screen
10-20 degrees below eye level. Third, schedule work breaks so you can stretch
your muscles and relax your eyes. Stand up and walk around for a few minutes or
look at a distance for at least twice an hour. (Wimalasundera, 2006).
Computers are part of our everyday life but, if you
don’t need to be on your laptop or tablet, refrain from using it to prevent
Computer Vision Syndrome. Go out with your friends, read a book or learn a new
hobby. Until next time! Hope I helped, Nick!
Senserely yours,
Mika
References
Kokab, S., & Khan, M. I.
(2012). Computer Vision Syndrome. Computer vision syndrome: A Short review., (371).
Loh, K. Y., & Reddy, S. C. (2008).
Understanding and preventing computer vision syndrome. Malaysian Family
Physician, 3(3), 128-130.
Wimalasundera, S. (2006). Computer
vision syndrome. Galle Medical Journal,11(1), 25-9.
No comments:
Post a Comment