Computers & Vision

Our lifestyles have changed.

Think about…

Do you have troubles focusing up close?
Do you spend more than 4-5 hours/day on digital devices?
How close do you hold your smartphone? 33cm?
Do you get...Headaches? Dry, scratchy or red eyes? Blur, particularly when you look up?

Does this sound like you or like a family member? Research has shown that prolonged use of screens has been linked to postural discomfort and vision fatique.

What can you do to make your eyes more comfortable?

1. Take lots of breaks when you know you are going to be on the computer for an extended period of time. Eye muscles allow the eyes to focus, and similar to every other muscle in the body, they become fatigued with overuse. There are no gold standard recommendations for taking breaks, but our suggestion is for every 20-30 minutes on the computer, have your eyes look away for 3-5 minutes.
2. Artificial tears may be of benefit for both dryness and redness. Please talk to us before you purchase an over-the-counter product. Not all products are appropriate or safe for everyone.
3. A computer pair of glasses may be required. These lenses are specifically designed for individuals who have extended screen time and also for preteens and teens, with high screen use. The lens materials and coating are key elements that impact the quality of vision. Keep in mind that all vehicles are not alike, neither are all computer lenses.
   
   Nikon's Smart Boost & Relaxsee and Essilor's Eyezen support eye focus efforts required for digital devise use.

If you are struggling on the computer, let us know. There are many other options, which can help your eyes to be more comfortable and possibly you may be more productive!

What is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)?

CVS is a temporary condition, which can occur in people who spend long, uninterrupted hours looking at a computer screen. Some of the symptoms of CVS are listed above, but may also include neck pain, doubling of vision and difficulty in focusing the eyes.

Not everyone whose work environment is computer based is going to have CVS, simply they are more likely to have symptoms.

What is the best position for me at my computer work station?

The following diagram illustrates an optimal ergonomic computer work station. Always be mindful that we are all a little bit different and you may want to consult with physiotherapist or ergonomic specialist to help you with any specific needs (i.e back problems etc).

From an EYE view…

• The top of the monitor should be approximately at eye level. This allows you to be always looking slightly down, which is critical for bifocal and progressive wearers.
• The monitor should be approximately 50-65 cm or 20-26 inches away from your face.
• Adjust room lighting to a comfortable level. Never have a light directed at your monitor as it increases glare.
• A good quality monitor, with high resolution is very important.
• Black letters on a white background is the most comfortable colour combination for our vision system, as that provides us with the highest contrast.
• A larger font size is always easier on the eyes, as they do not need to work as hard to focus.

Customizing Glasses for your work station…

Dual monitors?
Different distances to your laptop verses desktop?
Spreadsheets?
Adjustable desk height?

Everyone's work station may not be the same. Let us know if you have a very specific need and we can discuss custom computer glasses.