I sit at a computer all day long. Will this hurt my eyes?

With the infiltration of computers into the work place, a new visual problem has arisen. Due to the nature of video monitors and working environments that are not poorly designed for computer use, the computer operator can experience a variety of symptoms related to computer stress.

• Headaches—Extended periods of time working on the computer, along with improper glasses and poor lighting, can strain the focusing system of the eyes and cause the patient to experience headaches.
• Eye Strain—Overall visual fatigue can result from excessive viewing of a video monitor. Certain pitch settings on your monitor can increase the strain.
• Irritated Eyes—Several issues related to video monitors can result in dry/irritated eyes. The static electric field given off by the monitor attracts dust. This, teamed with Colorado's naturally low humidity, and the fact that the average person does not blink as often as he/she should while concentrating at a computer terminal, all lead to dry/irritated eyes.
• Blurry Vision—Working on a computer terminal throughout the day requires a tremendous amount of focusing effort by the eyes. The eyes are not designed for this level of focusing and focusing spasms as well as fluctuations in vision can result.

To gain relief from computer stress syndrome, try to decrease the "work load" on the visual system. This can be accomplished by using prescription eyewear, visual exercises and changing your working environment.

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