Computer screen should be 20 to 28 inches from eyes

Although the boom in technological advances over the last half century has made life easier for some, many eye care specialists are claiming that it is also damaging to eye health. According to The Wall Street Journal, optometrists say the concern extends beyond the occasional headache.

The news source reports that 80 percent of the public spends significant time throughout the day using computers, and adds that 90 percent of those who use them for more than two hours report symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). These symptoms can include headaches, fatigue and blurred vision.

CVS is worrisome, particularly because many optometrists do not know what prescription to give people who are having trouble reading their computer screen. According to the news provider, prescriptions typically focus on either nearsightedness or farsightedness, and computers generally sit in an ambiguous middle ground between 18 and 40 inches, leaving some eye doctors baffled.

Those suffering from the headaches and blurred vision associated with prolonged computer use may want to consider taking steps to reduce the effects of CVS. The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that one's computer screen be no more than 28 inches away from the eyes and no closer than 20. The AOA also suggests taking regular breaks from the computer to prevent eyestrain.