- Our Locations: Swan St Eye Centre - 03 9428 0402
- Dingley Eye Centre - 03 9551 4244
- Our Locations:
Swan St Eye Centre - 03 9428 0402 - Dingley Eye Centre - 03 9551 4244
Solutions to digital screen-related vision problems – such as Digital Eye Strain or Computer Vision Syndrome – are varied. They can, however, usually be alleviated by obtaining regular eye care and making changes in how you view your screen.
Lenses prescribed to meet the unique visual demands of computer viewing may be needed. In some cases, individuals who do not require the use of eyeglasses for most everyday activities may benefit from glasses prescribed specifically for computer use. Furthermore, those who are already wearing glasses or contact lenses may find their current prescription does not provide optimal vision for viewing a computer screen.
Special lens designs made specifically for computer use, lens prescriptions tailored for the computer or office environment, or lens tints and coatings (such as an anti-reflective coating or bluelight filter) may help to maximize visual abilities and comfort.
Some computer users experience problems with eye focussing or eye coordination that cannot be adequately corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. A program of vision therapy may be needed to treat these specific problems. Vision therapy is a structured program of visual activities prescribed to improve visual abilities. Think of it as physiotherapy for eyes. It trains the eyes and brain to work together more efficiently and effectively. These eye exercises help remediate deficiencies in eye movement, eye focusing and eye teaming and reinforce the eye-brain connection. Treatment may include office-based as well as home training procedures.
Proper body positioning and alignment of head, neck and back for computer use will help. Some important factors in preventing or reducing the symptoms of Digital Eye Strain have to do with the computer and how it is used. This includes lighting conditions, chair comfort, location of reference materials, position of the monitor, and the use of rest breaks.
Most people find it more comfortable to view a computer when the eyes are looking downward. Optimally, the computer screen should be 15 to 20 degrees below eye level as measured from the centre of the screen and 500 to 700 mm from the eyes. Reference materials should be located above the keyboard and below the monitor. If this is not possible, a document holder can be used beside the monitor. The goal is to position the documents so you do not need to move your head to look from the document to the screen.
2. Lighting
Position the computer screen to avoid glare, particularly from overhead lighting or windows. Use blinds or drapes on windows and replace the light bulbs in desk lamps with bulbs of lower wattage to reduce glare.
If there is no way to minimize glare from light sources, consider using a screen glare filter. These filters decrease the amount of light reflected from the screen.
Chairs should be comfortably padded and conform to the body. Chair height should be adjusted so your feet rest flat on the floor. If your chair has arms, they should be adjusted to provide arm support while you are typing. Your wrists shouldn’t rest on the keyboard when typing.
To prevent eye strain, try to rest your eyes when using the computer for long periods. For every 20 minutes of computer viewing, look into the distance for 20 seconds to allow your eyes a chance to refocus.
To minimize your chances of developing dry eye when using a computer, make an effort to blink frequently. Blinking keeps the front surface of your eyes moist and therefore more comfortable.
Regular eye examinations to ensure the optimal prescription is used for computer screens and digital devices as well as proper viewing habits can help to prevent or reduce the development of the symptoms associated with Digital Eye Strain.
At Insightful Eye Care, we are passionate about your vision and the health of your families’ eyes. Call either our Swan St (Richmond) or Dingley practice to make an appointment, book online or come down for a chat about how we can help treat and reduce the impact of Digital Eye Strain on you and your children’s eyes.
