Computers and Your Eyes

This week, Apple introduced the iPad and there has been a lot of talk about it. It made me realize how computers are becoming more and more a part of every aspect of our lives. It seems funny to me that when I began as an optometrist, computers were becoming a major part of the workplace. But think about computers now. Many of us are looking at a computer all day at work, looking at a Blackberry or iPhone while getting home then pulling out the laptop to “socialize” on Facebook. It is something we can’t get away from.

I think it is important for us to remember how to care for our eyes, which are obviously very important to us while using all of this technology. An optometrist friend of mine in Colorado shared an ABC News story with me about how near-sightedness is on the rise and thought increased computer use may be to blame. Well let me tell you for sure, increased computer use IS to blame.

We should all use this technology to benefit our lives but there are some things you should know and do. Our eyes are not designed to stay focused at near for extended periods of time. Our eyes relax when looking far away and work when looking at near. I like to think of it like holding a brick with your arm straight out from your body. You can do it for a little while, but soon your arm will get tired, then your arm will hurt, then your shoulder and your neck. You will need support and / or you will need to rest periodically.

So when using the computer (or iPhone, or Blackberry, or Kindle), take frequent breaks by looking at something far away. Make sure your prescription is up-to-date and that the print isn’t ridiculously small. The further away your monitor is from your face the easier it will be on your eyes (the brick will be lighter). And for kids, please balance time at the computer with time outside playing.