does-using-the-computer-damage-your-vision
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Does using the computer damage your vision?
Does using the computer damage your vision?
Last Reviewed : 12/18/2020
There are many myths associated with vision impairment caused by long duration of using computers. Using the computer for a long time has nothing to do with vision impairment, but it does cause a certain syndrome called Computer Vision Syndrome.
The main symptoms of computer vision syndrome are discomfort in the eyes, headache, itching of eyes, watering of eyes, burning sensation in the eyes, differences in the color perception and blurred vision. All those symptoms are triggered through constant staring at the computer screen with minimal blinks that makes the eyes go dry. The symptoms associated with computer vision syndrome are due to dry eyes but not due to defective vision per se. Other symptoms sometimes cause blurred vision due to the glaring effect of bright computer screen.
The most appropriate way to prevent computer vision syndrome is using the computer in a recommended duration. Primarily, the vision should also be checked for deficiencies and impairments so it will be treated as early as possible. The following are other ways you can prevent computer vision syndrome:
- Make a time limit of at least 20 minutes. If you plan on using the computer for a longer period, take short breaks in between to prevent the eyes from drying.
- The computer screen should be at least 2 feet away from the eyes and the angle should be maintained at 15 degrees.
- One should use the computer when there is adequate lighting only. Dim light allows the eyes to strain which can easily trigger the symptoms.
- The golden rule to be observed when using computers is the 20-20-20 rule: “Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.”
Even though prolonged usage of computers may not cause vision impairment per se, it is definitely associated with discomfort in the eyes. Staring away from the computer screen periodically and not using computers in the dark will help prevent these symptoms.
