Working at a computer all day long can play havoc with your eyes. Read our tips on reducing the effects of computer work, and find out how to choose a lens that can help keep your eyes fresh and more comfortable in front of a computer.
Do you spend lots of time in front of the computer?
Like it or not, computers have become an unavoidable part of our daily life. It is estimated we spend as much as 3.5 months out of each year in front of a computer monitor or TV screen.
However, staring at a computer screen all day makes you more susceptible to eye and vision related problems, including:
• Dry and irritated eyes
• Eye fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Redness and sensitivity to the light
• Headaches
• Neck and shoulder pain
Why computer work is hard on your eyes
Improper or less frequent blinking
Blinking is your body’s natural way of replenishing the tear film that keeps your eyes clean and moist. Blinking spreads the tears across your eyes, making sure they’re constantly moist, and keeping foreign bodies from entering and irritating them.
Normally, we blink once every 5 seconds (11,000 times a day). However, when we’re working at the computer we blink less frequently, or not as fully. In fact, studies show that we blink 5 times less than we should.
Using a monitor
Your eyes have little problem focusing on most printed material, where the characters are dense, black and with well-defined edges. Characters on a computer screen, however, don’t have this contrast or well-defined edges.
These characters (pixels) are brightest at the centre and diminish in intensity toward their edges. This makes it more difficult for your eyes to maintain focus and remain fixed onto these images.
Working at a computer wearing lenses
If you wear contact lenses, you may notice the effects of computer work even more – when you blink less, the surface of your lenses can dry out, leading to significant discomfort.
It doesn’t have to be this way. If you want to wear lenses comfortably while working at a computer, try ACUVUE® OASYS® with HYDRACLEAR® PLUS which is made with materials that retain their moisture. This is designed to give you an ultra smooth, comfortable feeling.
Tips for computer users
Reduce glare
Avoid facing an un-shaded window – the difference in brightness between your screen and the area behind it may cause eye stress and discomfort.
Blink more frequently
Lack of proper blinking is the main cause of dry eyes when you’re working at a computer. Blinking often rewets your lenses, making you more comfortable.
Check your contact lenses
Choose a contact lens material that retains its moisture and minimises these effects, such as ACUVUE® OASYS® with HYDRACLEAR® PLUS.
Adjust your monitor
You should be looking just over the top of the monitor in your straight-ahead gaze.
Take a break
Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes. Focus your eyes at least 6 metres from your terminal. Keep your eyes moving while looking at objects at various distances.
Try ACUVUE® OASYS®
Ask your optometrist about ACUVUE® OASYS® contact lenses with HYDRACLEAR® PLUS.
You can also claim a free* trial pair when you visit. Print voucher.
* Please note that professional eye exam and fitting fees may apply.