Eye strain from computers (or computer vision syndrome) is a condition that results from prolonged use of digital devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones. Symptoms of eye strain include eye fatigue, dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, and neck and shoulder pain. It is caused by the strain of focusing on a digital screen for long periods of time, as well as the glare and flicker of the screen.

 The Dangers of Eye Strain in the Office Environment

Eye strain is a common problem experienced by people who spend a lot of time in the office. Prolonged use of computers, long hours of reading or writing, and poor lighting can all contribute to eye strain. Symptoms of eye strain include headaches, blurred vision, neck and shoulder pain, dry eyes, and fatigue.

The main cause of eye strain in the office environment is prolonged exposure to blue light from computer screens. This type of light is particularly damaging to the eyes, as it can cause temporary vision problems and cause long-term damage to the eyes. Additionally, sitting at a computer for long hours without taking breaks can lead to eye strain.

To reduce the risk of eye strain, it is important to take regular breaks from the computer. Additionally, using the 20-20-20 rule can help prevent eye strain. According to this rule, every 20 minutes you should look away from the computer screen and focus on a distant object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain and fatigue.

It is also important to make sure the office environment is properly lit. Poor lighting can cause eye strain and fatigue, so it is important to ensure that the office is well-lit with natural and artificial light. Additionally, use of computer glasses with a blue light filter can help protect the eyes from the damaging effects of blue light. Finally, it is important to have regular eye examinations to ensure that your vision is healthy.

Tips to Reduce Eye Strain and Fatigue

1. Give your eyes a break: Take regular breaks from looking at digital screens. Every 15 to 20 minutes, look away from your screen and focus on a distant object for 20 seconds.

2. Adjust the lighting: Minimize glare by reducing the amount of light in the room, and make sure the light in the room does not reflect onto the screen.

3. Adjust the display settings: Set the brightness of your display to the same level as the brightness of the surrounding room. Increase the text size on your device to make it easier to read.

4. Blink: Make sure to blink frequently to prevent dry eyes.

5. Use artificial tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help reduce the symptoms of eye strain.

6. Stay hydrated: Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

7. Exercise your eyes: Close your eyes and roll them in a circular motion for several seconds. Then, look up and down and from side to side. This eye exercise can help reduce eye strain.

8.  Wearing glasses while working on a computer can help reduce eye strain and fatigue. It can also help protect your eyes from blue light coming from the computer screen, which is known to contribute to eye strain, dry eyes, and even macular degeneration. Additionally, glasses can help improve focus, reduce headaches, and help you stay alert and productive for longer.