Ergonomic Eye Problems are the most common ergonomic issue that most computer users all over the world experience. A number of symptoms associated with eyestrain can be attributed to improper ergonomics.

Let’s have a look at some of the symptoms related to vision here:

1. Visual fatigue
2. Blurred or double vision
3. Burning and watering eyes
4. Headaches and frequent changes in prescription glasses

This is now called under the nickname, computer vision syndrome or C.V.S.

American Optometric Association defines, C.V.S as “A complex of eye and vision Problems which are experienced during and related to computer use�.

There is a basic Ergonomic problems with the prolonged viewing of computer screens. The nature of screen characters and images necessitates subtle but continual refocusing. If one has to regularly switch the attention between a close screen and more distant workspace objects things become more complicated. C.V.S results from this change in dynamics.

Another cause of Ergonomic problems is that the average person blinks approximately 4 times per minute, far less than the natural rate of 22 blinks per minute. This lower blink rate causes eye moisture to evaporate, resulting in a “dry eye” condition . The symptoms of dry eye are sensations such as itching, burning, blurring, heavy eyelids, fatigue and double vision.

There is no evidence yet that computer work causes permanent eye damage. But the temporary discomfort that may occur can reduce productivity, cause lost work time, and reduce job satisfaction and self-confidence of the user.

In most cases eyestrain results from visual fatigue or glare from bright windows or strong light sources, light reflecting off the display screen, or poor display screen contrast.

Methods to Avoid Ergonomic problems: Eyestrain

1. Give ample exercise to the eyes by periodically focusing on objects at varying distances.
2. Blink the eyes regularly
3. Try to keep the air around you moist. For instance, you can use plants, open pans of water or a humidifier (spider plants are said to be particularly good for this and removing chemical vapors from the air)
4. Adjust the screen height/seating so that while you are comfortably seated, your eyes are in line with the top of the monitor screen
5. Adjust the brightness control on your monitor for comfort.
6. Adjust the contrast on your monitor to make the characters distinct from the background
7. Adjust the refresh rate of your monitor to stop it flickering
8. You need to position monitors in order to avoid glare (e.g. not directly in front of windows)
9. Keep your monitor screen clean.
10. Keep the screen and document holder (if you use one) at the same distance from your eyes
11. Try to place the reference materials as close to the screen as possible. You need to service, repair, or replace monitors that flicker or have insufficient clarity
12. Do regular eye testing at least once every 2 years and more frequently if necessary – especially if you are experiencing eye Problems related to using display equipment. Specify the distance from your eyes to the monitor to your optician and get information regarding special lenses or the use of bifocals.
13. Wear rigid rather than soft contact lens.
14. Replace your contacts on the schedule recommended by your optician.