Many computer users experience visual stress due to:

1) an increase in the number of complexity of necessary eye movements & focusing skills,
2) poor lighting conditions, glare & distracting reflections,
3) screen flicker rate, and
4) above all, the extended amount of computer use.

More than 50 percent of computer users experience eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision & other visual symptoms related to sustained use of the computer.

This type of stress on the visual system can also cause body fatigue and reduced efficiency at work. In addition, there are now indications that heavy computer users are at risk for glaucoma.

Many of these symptoms can be reduced through a combination of correcting workstation conditions, posture, stress-relieving lenses prescribed specifically for computer operation, special anti-glare screens, eye exercises & nutritional supplementation.

We were born to have hunters' eyes, needed for spotting game or danger at a distance. But during d last 50 years nearly all our work & much of our recreation, for example, video games, has shifted d focus of our vision to arm's length. This increased amount of near visual tasks often produces such changes as nearsightedness, suppressed vision in one eye, poor eye teaming & reduced efficiency at work & at play.

Tips to avoid eye problem:

The computer screen should be slightly below the eye level (about 20 degrees). Copy should be at the same level as the screen.

Locate keyboard so your wrists & lower arms are parallel to the floor.

Chairs should provide proper back support & be adjustable

Adjust the chair height so your feet are flat on the floor with thighs parallel to the floor

Adjust the work table so legs & knees clear it's underside

The screen brightness and contrast should be adjusted by the operator for the maximum viewing comfort

The workstation lighting should provide a 10:3 ratio - screen characters 10 times brighter than the screen background; room illumination 3 times brighter than screen background

Each workstation should have an adjustable shaded copy lamp that can be aimed by doperator without causing screen reflections

Eliminate glare & screen reflections by moving or tilting the computer or getting an anti-glare screen

Try not to face toward windows or bright light sources

Operators should face into an open space beyond the computer screen

Clean the screen regularly as they attract dust

Use anti-reflecting glasses if you use the computer.

Eat healthy with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Most importantly: Take a short break, 10-15 minutes every two hours, to relax your eyes & body.