Some important tips on preventing or reducing the symptoms of Computer Vision syndrome(CVS) are as follows:
1. Eye to monitor-the ideal distance: Optimally, the computer screen should 15 to 20 degrees below the horizontal eye level (about 5 or 6 inches) as measured from the center of the screen and 24 to 28 inches away from the eyes.
2. Reference materials –Reference materials should be placed above the keyboard and below the monitor at the same level of eye. If this is not possible, a document holder can be used beside the monitor. The goal is to position the documents so you do not need to move your head to look from the document to the screen.
3. Fonts- Preferably work with fonts of darker shades on light background and vice versa. The size of the text should be pleasing. It should be atleast three times more than the usual size of letter font.
4. Blinking - To minimize chances of developing dry eye when using a computer, make an effort to blink voluntarily frequently. Blinking keeps the cornea and conjunctiva moist.
5. Rest breaks - To prevent eyestrain, try to rest your eyes when using the computer for long periods. Rest your eyes for 15 minutes after two hours of continuous computer use.
Or Follow the 20-20-20 rule: For every 20 minutes of computer use, rest your eyes for 20 seconds by looking into a distance of 20 feet or more to allow your eyes a chance to refocus.
6. Lighting - Position the computer screen to avoid glare, particularly from overhead lighting or windows. There should not be any bright light in front of the monitor or eyes.
Use blinds or drapes on windows and replace the light bulbs in desk lamps with bulbs of lower wattage.
7. Anti-glare screens - If there is no way to minimize glare from light sources, consider using a screen glare filter. These filters decrease the amount of light reflected from the screen Or you may wear a antireflection coated(A.R.C) glass.
8. Seating position - Chairs should be comfortably padded and conform to the body. Arm must rest on the arm rest of the chair, feet on the feet rest and wrist on the wrist pad. You must sit comfortably.
9. A.C distance: Avoid sitting at a location where there is direct air flow towards the eyes from the AC or blowers. Do not work for long hours in a room with low humidity.
10. Hands free phone: Consider using hands-free phone during long hours computer work.
Regular eye examinations and proper viewing habits can help to prevent or reduce the development of the symptoms associated with Computer Vision Syndrome.
