Computer Eye Strain Causes

When it comes to the corporate working environment, more and more people are using computers on a regular basis. Although these electronic devices are revolutionizing our work environments, they are also taking a toll on our eyes.

One of the primary computer eye strain causes is sitting at a desk within an office environment all day where it is likely that a great deal of work is taking place looking at a screen. However, anyone who enjoys a video game or two or spends a lot of time writing essays and researching online can succumb to computer eye strain.

The most common symptoms of this form of eye strain include headaches, a sore/stiff neck, tired, sore, dry and itchy eyes, watery and blurred vision, trouble focusing and concentrating, double vision and, in some instances, problems seeing colors and shapes on the screen. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then there is a good chance that you are suffering from computer eye strain.

So what causes this form of strain on the eyes? Obviously it comes from a computer? But what else should we know about the causes of eye strain? And, more importantly, what can be done to stop it?

Causes of Eye Strain and Common Complaints

• Reflected glare- the glare from the screen is one of the main causes of eye strain. Try to position the device so that the top of the screen is below the straight ahead seeing position.
• Ergonomically unfriendly set up- everyone is different when it comes to their comfort levels. Try to move your keyboard and monitor to a position that is best suited for you.
• Closeness of the monitor- a monitor is usually set up 60 centimeters away from you. One of the biggest computer eye strain causes is sitting too close to the monitor. Try to move it back throughout the day to allow your eyes to have a different focusing perspective.
• Concentration- while you are working, your eyes are concentrating on the different words you type and the different sentences you read. This level of concentration can result in blurred vision, as your eyes begin to tire. To avoid this, try to take breaks with your eyes. Stare at something in the distance every fifteen minutes and, if you can, get up, take a walk and get away from the screen for a little while.
• Poor lighting and brightness on the screen- when you stare at the sun, your eyes most likely will start to hurt, water and close. This is because the lighting is simply too strong for your eyes, causing them to strain. This can also happen with your monitor and office lighting environment. Make sure you choose a monitor lighting scheme that is no more than three or four times brighter than your office lighting.
• Tediousness of staring- your eyes are working teeny tiny muscles every time they stare at a computer screen. Although you may not even realize it, these muscles are continuously working hard. Think about how sore your body feels after an hour at the gym- now multiply that by 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. No wonder your eyes get so sore!