Eye Care - What You Need To Know About Eye Fatigue

Today, as the usage of technology increases throughout the world, so does all of the concerns for safety and health. With the advent of the internet and laptop computers, it seems almost everyone is using a computer on a regular basis, whether at work, home, or out and about. With all the benefits of technology, there is also an abundance of individuals who complain about some sort of difficulty they are experiencing with their vision from the increased reliance on computers. All of the scientific research that has been conducted by experts within this field has indicated that, even though it is very common for computer users to experience eye fatigue and discomfort, there isn't permanent damage that stems from the use of computers on an everyday basis. People who use the computer a lot should be meticulous about their eye care in order to keep their eyes healthy.

However, in 2004, there was one study completed in Japan that did find that there was an increase in the risk for individuals who use computers on an everyday basis, as well as an increase in the incidence of Glaucoma for those who use computers regularly. The estimated statistics that are provided by NIOSH, the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety, indicate that there are more than sixty million individuals in America alone that suffer from eye-related problems from the use of a computer.

The vast majority of complaints by those who use computers on a regular, long-term basis involves headaches and eyestrain. All of these issues aren't the actual result of the computer or monitor, but instead a result of a combination of these factors.

With regards to eyestrain, some optometrists believe it can be due to the repetitive nature of computer use, which is very similar to the well-known carpal tunnel syndrome. Staring at a computer screen for hours without breaks or eye exercises can lead to eyestrain symptoms. However, there is very little evidence of any permanent damage to the eye caused by the actual computer.

However, it is extremely important for users to exercise proper eye care to reduce the amount of eye fatigue and strain. There are several different contributing factors that are possibly related to eye problems and computer use. They are as follows:

1. The use of bifocals, which are normally set for a reading distance of around sixteen inches, and most of the computer monitors are normally a little farther away than just sixteen inches.

2. The computer monitor's set distance causes the worker to have to focus on one certain distance for a very long period of time.

3. Information on the computer monitor is known to be the brightest within the middle and then it fades out and begins to get a little closer to the very edge. This is what causes the eyes to overwork and later compensate which can result in eye strain.

Eye fatigue isn't something that you should take lightly; after all, we are talking about your sight! You should make sure to learn about the problems associated with eye fatigue, and also learn proper eye care and the techniques to lessen the occurrence of eye strain in order to keep your eyes as healthy as possible and functioning at full capacity.