When at work, take care of your eyes

In today’s time when all our work is practically done on computer, looking at the screen for hours put an excessive strain on our eyes, which can lead to a condition termed as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).

In today’s time when all our work is practically done on computer, looking at the screen for hours put an excessive strain on our eyes, which can lead to a condition termed as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).

Don’t think, blink

“While concentrating on a screen the eye tends to blink less. This is an involuntary action and results in drying up of the tears, which are the natural lubricant lining of the eye’s surface,” says Anita Sethi, Head Ophthalmology, Artemis Health Institute.

“Nowadays, an increasing number of people suffer from CVS. They don’t even realise it till they see a doctor. “I would suggest that people should go for regular eye check-ups, at least once a year without fail,” says Vijay Sharma, Opthamologist, B L Kapur Memorial hospital.

“CVS is a temporary discomfort in eyes but can get aggravated by anything that compromises tear production of the eyes such as: minor allergies or infections. It can worsen during seasonal change or exposure to dust and pollution,” adds Dr Sethi.

Being aware about the CVS can help people be on a preventive side. “People who work for long hours in front of the computer, a 20-20 preventive technique, works best. “After every 20 minutes of working on the computer, one should look 20 feet away. Also once in a while lubricating drops can be put into eyes before going to bed,” adds Dr Sharma.

Symptoms of CVS:

Discharge and watery eyes

Itchiness and pain in the eyes

Feeling of heaviness in eyes

Redness and irritation

Blurring of vision

Strain on the vision

Prevention:

Place the screen or laptop at a comfortable height so that it is approximately at eye level

After working for 20-30 minutes at a stretch, one should look away from the screen and consciously blink. This allows resurfacing of the tear film and lubricates the eye surface

Read in good light and choose fonts and colours with good contrast and visibility to minimise strain

Avoid direct air from the AC/fan

Those who use contact lenses should be careful not to overwear the lenses