| Q. |
How widespread a problem is CVS? |
| A. |
More than 70 million U.S. workers use a computer,
and more than 88 percent of them complain of
computer-related eyestrain, according to the
National institute of Occupational Safety and
Health. If you use a computer daily, you may
experience symptoms that include blurred vision,
eyestrain, headaches, nausea, double vision,
and burning and itching eyes.
|
| Q. |
What can home workers do to alleviate or prevent
CVS? |
| A. |
Pinpointing and removing the cause of CVS usually
makes it go away. If you suspect you have it, consult
an optometrist who specializes in the syndrome,
and who in turn will help determine the cause.
The main culprits include glare, computer placement,
and screen color.
Glare can be reduced with proper lighting. Use
warm white or deluxe bulbs in place of cool white
bulbs, and consider investing in a glass—not
mesh or nylon—antiglare screen. Also, vertically
angle your monitor 15 to 30 degrees so it is positioned
below eye level. Another consideration is achieving
good background and foreground contrast with your
screen color. |