Anyone who has spent hours in front of a computer screen for months or years on end will likely complain that his or her vision has declined. This phenomenon called computer vision syndrome is a very real condition. It has been significantly notable in the youngest population in recent years, as computer use in school and at home has increased substantially. More than ninety percent of the American population has a computer at home and children between the ages of eight and eighteen spend large amounts of time each day using those computers or other similar devices. In fact, in 2009, it was found that the average child in that age group spent more than seven hours per day in front of a digital display, with an hour and a half of that, on average, being devoted to text messaging. As the trend of computer use continues to increase, so does the percentage of the American population suffering with myopia.
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, makes it difficult for affected individuals to see clearly at a distance and will make it necessary for those people to seek the attention of an Austin optometrist. Myopia will frequently require the use of corrective eyewear.
Austin is also seeing an increase in the number of people seeking the benefits of Lasik eye surgery, used to correct the effects of myopia, which is caused by an irregular curve of the eye’s lens, which must then be reshaped by laser.
What Can You Do For Your Children? The most important thing to do as a parent is to be a proponent of activities that do not involve the use of the computer or other digital entertainment devices. Very often children lose track of how much time they have spent at the computer screens and this is where parental guidance is needed. Furthermore, kids, especially young children, quickly adapt and may not realize that blurred vision is not normal. Regular eye exams by an optometrist or ophthalmologist are very important in ensuring that poor vision does not interfere in a child’s education and ability to enjoy life.
What Should You Do For Yourself? Although walking away from your computer screen may not be an option, there are things that you can do to minimize the visual risk your job causes. First and foremost, you too should have regular eye exams. Even if you are not experiencing any visual symptoms now or your prescription lenses seem to be working fine, it is highly recommended that all individual have their eyes inspected regularly. This is especially true of contact lens wearers. Regular contact lens exams can help to ensure that the product is working correctly and fitting properly.
It is also beneficial to work in proper lighting and to minimize glare on the screen. Most offices actually feature lighting that is too bright for optimal working conditions. Attempt to keep lighting at an ambient setting and avoid harsh sunlight coming in through the window. Positioning the computer so it does not sit directly in front of the window and so the outdoor light does not reflect off it can also help to preserve your vision. This also helps to minimize glare. Anti-glare screens are available that can help prevent shine off the computer screen itself and for those who wear eyeglasses, there is the option to apply an anti-reflective coating.
Tech Ridge Vision
500 Canyon Ridge Dr
Austin, TX 78753
(512) 837-3200