Eye strain

Eye strain is a common problem for people who frequently use or work with computers. If you work on a computer, you should know computers do not harm your eyes, but can cause temporary vision problems, headaches or neck pain.

When performing tasks near your eyes, such as reading or typing on a computer screen, small muscles inside your eyes have to work hard to keep a clear focus. Like any other muscle in your body, your eye muscles fatigue with extended use. Eye strain, blurry near vision and difficulty changing focus from distance to near are common symptoms. Computer users also blink much less as they concentrate on the screen, resulting in poor tear circulation and dry, irritated eyes.

Several simple solutions can remedy eye strain problems.

• Exercise your eyes by looking into the distance every 15 minutes to let your eye muscles relax.
• Make a conscious effort to blink several times during each break.
• Use eye lubrication drops if your eyes become excessively dry.
• Purchase glasses with anti-reflective coating to help with your near focus and reduce the glare from your computer screen and overhead lights.

As you age, the ability to focus on near objects lessens. You may find that computer glasses will eliminate the need to tilt your head to maintain focus from your screen to the keyboard and diminish eye strain. The staff at the Optical Store @ Park Nicollet can help you find the pair of glasses that best suits your needs, including reading and computer-specific lenses.