Computer
Vision Syndrome Symptoms Solutions
A look at solving today's workstation vision
challenges
By Karlen
McLean, ABOC, NCLC
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Ergonomic Problem Solvers |
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| Ergonomics—the
science of space usage—can help your patients make their workday more comfortable
by alleviating visual and physical strain. Monitor: The monitor should be set so the user gazes downward at a 10- to 20-degree angle, about 4 to 8 inches below the eyes. The ideal distance from the monitor to the eyes is between 20 and 26 inches. Laptops: Because laptops are used in a variety of environments—most of them not conducive to ease of vision or posture—laptop use should be limited to the shortest time possible. Leave long-term computer use to desktop models. Screen illumination: Characters on the screen should be 10 times brighter than the screen background. With black letters on white background, the white background should be 10 times brighter than the letters. Clean the screen regularly, and use a larger screen which is easier on the eye. Room lighting: The room should be three times brighter than the screen background. Workstations should have adjustable shaded copy lights that can be positioned without creating screen reflections. |
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CHALLENGE Visual fatigue. Eye movement is controlled by six extra ocular muscles, and changing focus is controlled by the ciliary muscle. These muscles are in continuous use when viewing a computer monitor. Images on a computer screen consisting of pixels are different from printed materials, less defined with less contrast, making computer viewing visually demanding. As the eye ages, the flexibility of the lens within the eye gradually decreases, meaning users have to constantly refocus on the screen.
SOLUTION. Counsel patients on the effects of CVS; prescribe workstation eyewear; fit, dispense, and explain the use of workstation eyewear; and follow up with patients to be sure they are experiencing more visual comfort while at work when they are using their new eyewear.
CHALLENGE Dry eye. This affects at least 40 percent of the adult population and is specifically related to computer use. Symptoms can include dry, red, or irritated eyes, and excessive tearing or discomfort with contact lenses. These symptoms are usually caused by a decreased blink rate, which is common with computer use. A monitor set too high can create the need for eyes to gaze slightly upward, which exposes 30 percent more of the eye, and allows the tear layer to evaporate.
SOLUTION Scheduled resting of the eyes, combined with conscientious blinking, use of artificial tears, lowering the monitor position, and use of a humidifier in extreme cases. If the patient is a contact lens wearer, suggest eyewear for work or a higher water content CL.
CHALLENGE Other CVS symptoms. Blurry vision; light sensitivity; headaches; eyelid or muscle fluttering; and pain in the shoulders, neck, or back.
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Take a Break |
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Enhance vision and performance by taking a short break—about 15 minutes—every two hours. If the work is computer intensive, rest every hour. |
SOLUTION Periodic breaks from near-to-intermediate work, espec-ially from a computer screen. Get an eye exam and updated eyewear, including workstation eyewear.
CHALLENGE Access to a variety of lenses. Finding the right lenses for each patient can mean looking at a variety of product offerings based on their needs for viewing distances, as well as wearing comfort.
SOLUTION Contact lens manufacturers for specifics on NVF lens offerings. Ask them about viewing distances, fitting, and measuring procedures. Your wholesale lab can also be a great resource. Obtain literature and tools, and look into educational programs specific to NVF lenses. Touch base regularly to keep on top of all the latest workplace lens news and information.
IMAGE COURTESY OF CARL ZEISS |
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| IMAGES COURTESY OF ESSILOR | |
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Current Near Vision Focus Lenses in the Marketplace |
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Look into NVF lenses, and look to individual companies and your wholesale lab to get you the comprehensive training you need to make workstation eyewear a viable route to increased patient satisfaction and practice profit. Carl Zeiss Essilor of America HOYA Vision Care North America PRIO Corporation Shamir Insight AO/SOLA |
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