by Roohi

Created on: December 07, 2008

So you have been staring at the computer for quite a few hours now, is it? Wondering why you are squinting? Or wondering why your vision is getting all blurred? Or maybe your eyes are feeling dry? Probably you need to consult an eye specialist. Here's a tip. You might just have what is called Computer Vision Syndrome.

With the growing reliance on computers, more and more people are experiencing physical problems due to their constant use. Computer Vision Syndrome or CVS is one of the problems that show

how computer use can affect our eyes. Here are some things you might want to know about CVS:

1. The causes - What's the cause? Well, it's the pixels on your computer screens. Pixels are what your computer monitor uses to display the words and images. Since their brightness diminishes as they go towards the edges, our eyes do a lot of work in an attempt to focus and refocus. This puts a lot of strain on them, thereby leading to CVS.

2. Symptoms - So you want to do a self-diagnosis? No problem. Here is a list of symptoms which will help you do exactly that:

* Blurred vision
* Itching
* Burning
* Dry eyes
* Teary eyes
* Difficulties in focusing
* Double vision
* Squinting
* Eye strain
* Headaches
* Pain in the neck, shoulder and back

If you have these symptoms, you should probably get in touch with an optometrist and get a good pair of glasses, especially meant for computer usage.

3. Preventing Vision Problems - By using a few simple tips you can avoid getting Computer Vision Syndrome. If you already have it, don't worry. You can prevent your vision from getting worse with these tips:

* Blinking is the best exercise for your eyes. So blink every 2 seconds.
* Exercise your eyes by rolling them or looking from side to side.
* Place your computer or laptop at your eye level or below it.
* Your chair should give proper support to your back.
* Stretch yourself every 5 minutes to relax your neck and back.
* Give at least a 2 minute break to your eyes after every 15 minutes.
* Splash your eyes with cold water every hour.
* Make sure there is no glare on the computer screen.
* It should neither be too dark in the room nor too bright.

Although Computer Vision Syndrome may not be a very serious thing but it can sure frustrate you a lot. Now I am a real sufferer and this is actually my personal experience. So get a pair of good eyeglasses (if needed) and try some of these tips given above. I am sure you will experience much relief from this very irritating vision problem.

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