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Computer Vision Syndrome and the 20 20 20 Rule

Posted by on September 12, 2013 under Resources | Be the First to Comment

What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

WomaRubbingEyesComputer vision syndrome (CVS) refers to symptoms of strain and fatigue in the eyes, head and neck that result from prolonged close-up activities.  Although it’s possible to develop eye strain and eye fatigue from reading – or from other close-up activities – computer and mobile technology use is the primary cause of CVS.

Each year approximately 10 million Americans have eye exams because of CVS symptoms.  Some common symptoms include headache, backache, neck pain and eye strain – including blurred or double vision, focusing problems, eye twitching and dry, irritated eyes.  These symptoms can develop after a full day of computer use, or after a little as 20 minutes.  People also blink less frequently while working or playing on a computer, increasing the risk of blurred vision and red, itchy, irritated eyes after prolonged use.

What You Can Do

A good rule of thumb is to follow the “20-20-20 rule” when working at a computer: every 20 minutes, look away from your computer screen and find an object that’s at least 20 feet away to look at for  20 seconds.  This relaxes eye alignment and focusing muscles that are used for close up work, reducing your risk of eyestrain and eye fatigue.

The 20-20-20 rule isn’t just for better eye health; scientists have linked sitting for long periods of time with a number of health complications, including poor circulation, blood clots, increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, assorted aches and pains and increased obesity, among others. During these mini-breaks, take the opportunity to stand up and stretch.  This not only relieves muscle tension in your back and shoulders, but increases metabilism, moves fluid that builds up in the legs, reduces blood pressure and your risk of blood clots, and much more.

RELATED: How Sitting For Too Long Affects The Body

Additional Tips to Reduce Symptoms:

  • Blink More Frequently.  While working, remind yourself to blink more frequently to remoisten your eyes.
  • Try Gentle Massage.  Try gently massaging the area around your upper and lower eyelids for 10-20 seconds, once or twice a day.  This type of gentle massage can stimulate your tear glands, helping to prevent dry eyes.
  • Keep Saline Handy. Try keeping a bottle of natural lubricating eye drops, such as saline, close to your work station.  Avoid moisturizing with eyedrops that contain a redness remover, which can actually aggravate symptoms of dry eyes.
  • Improve Desk Ergonomics.  A computer screen that is positioned too high, too low, or even too close can contribute to strain in the neck and shoulders.  Visit here for tips on how to set up an ergonomic computer area.

For more health information and useful tips, visit the Resources and Tools Blog on TotalHomeCareSupplies.com.

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