Eye Strain

Eye strain or eye fatigue is a common condition affecting computer users. It may be experienced as difficulty focusing (blurred vision), double vision (diplopia), headache, soreness and dryness of the eyes. It is shown to slow the rate of refocusing when looking between near and far objects and difficulty focusing on distant objects after time at the computer screen. It can lead to generalised fatigue, poor concentration, loss of productivity and increased error making.

Eye strain affects up to fifty percent of computer users to some degree. This can be seen in the context of our evolutionary history. We evolved primarily as hunter gatherers spending the majority of our time focusing at distance whilst also doing some tasks with our hands. Nowadays computer users may not change their focus from the screen for hours everyday. The eye relies on the health of it’s intrinsic and extrinsic muscles to focusing and accurate eye positioning. If we reduce this practice the muscles fatigue and lose tone as the lens becomes less compliant. Thankfully, like all muscles, the eye muscles can be exercised and strengthened to combat eye strain and fatigue.

Treatment and Management of Eye Strain

• The computer user should first look at their work station. It is advisable to have a good ergonomic set up.
• Make sure that the work station is not facing a bright window or light source, clean the screen at regular intervals to remove dust.
• Anti glare devices can be useful.
• Take regular breaks – Desk Therapy reminds users to stop periodically and has a number of eye exercises to help.
• Adjust the brightness and contrast to provide the best working condition.
• Use a medium to large font or viewing window
• Remember to blink regularly
• Do regular eye exercises. Desk Therapy will show you when to do some good eye exercises during the day
• If you are looking at documents try to keep these at the same height as the screen.
• Ensure that the general light conditions in the work area are good.
• Spend a lot of leisure time outside to increase the natural light and focusing skills
• Adjust the screen flicker rate
• Make sure that you have the correct prescription
• Reduce stress levels
• Practice relaxation
• Drink plenty of water