March is Workplace Eye Safety month, and while we typically assume professions such as healthcare, mechanic, landscaping, welding, etc. are the most prone to eye injuries, the most common is actually computer vision syndrome.

What is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)?

Wikipedia defines CVS as a “condition resulting from focusing the eyes on a computer or other display device for protracted, uninterrupted periods of time”. The muscles in the eye are then unable to adequately recover from the strain due to inadequate sleep.

While computer screens do not cause permanent vision damage, they can cause temporary headaches, eye fatigue, redness, sensitivity, and difficulty focusing.

What causes this eye strain?

Humans blink an average of 15 times per minute, but studies show we blink far less when using computers and other digital screen devices – about a third of the amount.

Tips to minimizing eye strain:

• Sit about 25 inches, or arm’s length, from the computer screen. Position the screen so your eye gaze is slightly downward.

• Take regular breaks using the “20-20-20” rule: every 20 minutes, shift your eyes to look at an object at least 20 feet away, for at least 20 seconds.
• Use artificial tears to refresh your eyes when they feel dry.
• If a screen is much brighter than the surrounding light, you should adjust your room lighting so you have less of a contrast.

If you experience red, watery or irritated eyes from consistent computer usage, contact our office to discuss your options for relief. 904-272-2020