If you spend long hours in front of a computer screen and experience blurred vision, red or irritated eyes, headaches or neck pain, you may be suffering from computer vision syndrome or CVS. The term encompasses a whole range of eyestrain and pain associated with extended periods staring at a monitor.

Research shows that this condition is somewhat common with 50-90% of people who work at a computer screen or video display terminals have at least some symptoms of eye strain associated with CVS. It’s also seen in children who use computers throughout the school day or play video games for long hours.

Much like another computer-related malady, carpal tunnel syndrome, computer vision syndrome is a repetitive stress injury that occurs when you're completing the same motion over and over again. When you are working at a computer, your eyes are constantly moving, focusing and adjusting to changing images on the screen. This is giving your eye muscles a workout that is far more challenging than reading a book or piece of paper, because a computer screen also adds the elements of screen contrast, flicker, and glare.

Computer eye problems are more likely to occur if you already have a vision problem, such as nearsightedness or astigmatism, or if you need glasses but don't wear them or wear the wrong prescription for computer use. Working at a computer gets even more difficult as you get older as the lens of your eye becomes less flexible and the ability to focus on near and far objects starts to diminish.

You can help reduce or prevent computer vision symptoms with the following adjustments to your work environment:

• Reduce glare. Adjust the lighting around your workspace to reduce glare and reflections on your computer screen. This might include turning off or dimming overhead lights, closing window shades, or moving your monitor to avoid glare. Glare filters are also available to place over your monitor.
• Rearrange your desk. Researchers say the optimal position for your computer monitor is slightly below eye level, about 20 to 28 inches away from your face. At that position, you shouldn't have to stretch your neck or strain your eyes to see what's on the screen. Use a copy stand or copy clip positioned next to your computer monitor if you need to refer to printed materials as you work. This will reduce having to look up at the screen and back down at the desk as often.
• Give your eyes a break. Look away from the screen every 20 minutes or so and either gaze out the window or scan the room for about 20 seconds to rest your eyes. Blink often to keep your eyes moist. If your eyes are getting overly dry, try using lubricating eyedrops.
• Tweak computer settings. You don't have to live with the factory-installed settings on your computer if you're uncomfortable. Adjust the brightness, contrast, and font size until you find the best settings for your vision.

In addition, be sure to have regular eye exams and discuss any problems you are having with your doctor who can determine if you need glasses or contacts or special computer glasses.

Sources:

WebMD