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Eye Health Tip: Protect Against Computer Vision Syndrome

 
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If you work at a computer for more than two hours each day, and find you have headaches, neck and shoulder pain, dry eyes, and blurred vision, you could have computer vision syndrome (CVS).

No one likes to look in the mirror after a tough day at the office and see bloodshot eyes starting back at them. CVS could be caused by sitting too close to a computer screen, poor lighting, poor seating posture, and uncorrected vision problems. Most people who work at a computer find symptoms gradually decrease over time once they stop their computer work for the day. But excessive stress can exacerbate other eye health issues and cause excessive dry eye.

To prevent developing symptoms, or to decrease further damage done to eyes from strain, it is important to follow good ergonomic practices for your desk setup. Make sure the computer screen top is below your eye level by about 15 to 20 degrees, and have any reference materials you need between the keyboard and the computer screen level, so you don’t need to move your head to view documents. Other tips include improving lighting, using anti-glare screens, and seating position and height.

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Resource:
Women’s Health: The Truth Behind Computer Vision
American Optometric Association: Computer Vision Syndrome is a Stroke?

Christine Jeffries is a writer/editor for work and at heart, and lives in a home of testosterone with her husband and two sons. Christine is interested in women’s health and promoting strong women.

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EmpowHER Guest
Anonymous

I have been diagnosed with Dry eye syndrome. I also have "infected eye lids" How do eye lids become infected? It has plaugued me for the past year. What can I do to clear up my infected eye lids? I have done the eye drop perscriptions and antibiotics for my eyes. My eyes will feel better for a little while then will feel like I haven't slept for a week! How can I "Keep" my eyes healthy?

February 18, 2011 - 10:52am
(reply to Anonymous)

Hi Anonymous,
Thanks for reading the article. When you say "infected eye lids," what does that mean? Is there a particular condition your doctor has diagnosed you with like conjunctivitis or something else? Did you ask your doctor how to prevent these repeated infections? Do you wear contacts?
I will try and locate some information for you after getting more details.

February 21, 2011 - 9:25am
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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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