Stop Right Now

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.

CVS affects up to 90% of computer users

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.