Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a temporary condition that happens when you spend too much time focusing your eyes on a computer screen. Symptoms include headaches, blurred or double vision, neck pain, redness in the eyes, fatigue, eye strain, dry eyes and trouble refocusing the eyes. Here are ten tips to avoid CVS:

• Keep at least 25 inches between your eyes and the screen
• Tilt the top of the monitor slightly farther from the eye than the bottom of the monitor
• Use dark letters on a light background
• Ensure that the viewing area of the monitor is between 150mm and 500mm below horizontal eye level
• Use indirect lighting suspended from the ceiling, and use blinds, shades or curtains to control outside light and reflections
• Always use a chair with arms and keep your head slightly tilted to reduce fatigue
• Avoid having air blow directly on your eyes, and avoid low humidity or fumes as they may aggravate dry eyes
• Every 20 minutes, look away from the screen at a distance of 20 feet for 20 seconds
• Every so often, be sure to blink your eyes a few times. Close your eyes and roll once clockwise and once counter clockwise.
• Take a deep breath and open your eyes while releasing breath
• If the problem persists, visit an eye specialist

Our advisor is Dr Sayed Mohammed Shariq, eye surgeon with Prime Medical Centre. For more information,
call 02 622 9993.