With computers playing a larger part of our lives, both personal and work, we are seeing a variety of new problems associated with excessive stationery use of computers and the monitors many face for hours each day.
There are many known physiological impacts to our bodies associated with regular computer use. ?The most widely known of these are carpal tunnel syndrome, cervical (neck) strain, back problems, slowed circulation, common aches and pains, reduced muscle tone, fatigue and other results of people sitting and typing or surfing the net for hours on end. ?Among those less known are the problems of eye strain, dry or itchy eyes, blurred vision and headaches unrelated to brain-strain.
The visual impacts are caused by un-corrected vision problems (proper eyewear), improper lighting, glare on the computer monitor/screen, incorrect distance of the computer screen and also poor seating posture. ??Obviously, there are remedies for each of these problems and most do not require the services of a medical professional:
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Position the computer screen 20 to 28 inches away from your eyes
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The computer screen should be located directly in front of you.
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The computer screen should be tilted 15 to 20 degrees below eye level
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Proper corrective lenses should be used and in some cases a computer user should obtain special eyewear for computer use only.
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Avoid glare from windows while using your computer.
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Perhaps apply a screen-glare filter.
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Have an anti-glare coating applied to your eyewear.
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Position reading materials at the same distance and angle as your monitor.
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Consider use of a book holder or monitor-mounted clip to hold papers at the same angle and distance as your screen.
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Give your eyes a break with the twenty-twenty rule: ??Every twenty minutes, gaze twenty feet into the distance for twenty seconds to give your eye muscles a rest.
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Use artificial tears periodically to lubricate your eyes.
Unlike so many ?throw-away? items we purchase today, our eyes are not yet replaceable. ?In spite of modern technology and our many advances in medicine, we are still provided with one and only one pair of eyes to last a lifetime. ?No person has found their life improved with the deterioration or loss of vision. ??Protect your eyes. ?They are the only ones you?ll have for your entire life.