For your eyes only!

Pinching headache, redness in the eyes, dryness, persistent pain in the neck, back and shoulders - these are not signs of aging but a common problem that young and adults are facing today. Blame these symptoms on the dependency on electronic gadgets like computer and laptops.

We neglect minor pains thinking they may be due to stress, migraines or work pressure but the underlying problem which has grown rapidly is the Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), a complex eye or vision problem related to computer use.

Eyes are the most delicate part of a body. Staring at brightly-lit computer screens for hours at a stretch is adversely affecting eyesight of millions. Medically speaking, CVS is caused by our eyes and brain reacting differently to characters on the screen than they do to printed characters.

In this modern age where everything is getting digitalised one has to sit for hours in front of computer screens. Prolonged viewing is the most common cause of this ailment and unnatural for optical system.

Blinking is very important when working on a computer as it rewets the eyes, which avoids dryness and irritation. When working on a computer, people blink less frequently and lower blinking rates cause eye moisture to evaporate thus leading to dryness.

Padamshree A K Grover, chairman, Department Eye Surgery, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, says, “People give less importance to their eyes and this results in eye problems. First, a mandatory check is important after a child turns 10-12 years old because undetected errors can lead to permanent defect in the eyes and also post 40, people should go for eye check-ups regularly.”

He further adds, “We are seeing an increase in eye problems due to high usage of computers and laptops, but one cannot turn away from them either. So, one should use eye drops which act as artificial tears and lubricants and help avoid dryness.” People who face eye problems, often complain of burning sensation, irritation and the presence of a foreign body and strain.

Additionally, one can use proper lighting, minimise the glaze and brightness of the computer screens and the quality of monitor display to avoid unnecessary strain on the eyes. Also, changing one’s workstation can help minimise symptoms. This can be done by placing the monitor directly in front of you and it should be about 20 to 26 inches away from you.

Also, make sure the monitor is not too high. Experts also recommends that the center of the screen should be four to nine inches below your straight-ahead gaze. If you reposition your chair, keep in mind that your arms should be parallel to the floor when you type, and your feet should be flat on the floor or on a footstool.

Adjust the contrast and brightness at moderate levels and reduce the screen glare. Blink 10 times by closing your eyes as if falling asleep (very slowly). This will help rewet your eyes, Do this after every 30 minutes and take frequent breaks and exercise your eyes whenever possible.