Visual fatigue from small computers

The increasing use of smaller work gadgets, from PDAs to laptops and cell phones, is contributing to visual fatigue and discomfort.

“The unique characteristics and high visual demands of computer work make many individuals susceptible to the development of vision-related problems,” Dr. Jeffrey Anshel, an optometrist and author of Visual Ergonomics in the Workplace, told Ergoweb.com.

A recent survey of optometrists found that more than 14 per cent of patients reported eye or vision-related symptoms resulting from computer work.

“Staring at a computer monitor or the small screens on most devices can lead to a variety of ailments, including headaches, eyestrain, blurred vision, dry and irritated eyes, neck and/or backache and sensitivity to light,” Dr. Anshel warns.

"Eye stress and strain may be caused by a combination of individual visual problems, improper viewing habits, and poor environmental conditions, such as glare, improper workstation set up, dirty screens, poor lighting and viewing angles.

"The good news is that many potential eye and/or vision problems can be reduced or eliminated by the appropriate adjustment and placement of computer monitors, lighting control, good preventive vision care habits, and regular professional eye care," Dr. Anshel says.