What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

The American Optometric Association (AOA) defines Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) as "the complex of eye and vision problems related to near work which are experienced during or related to computer use. CVS is characterized by visual symptoms which result from interaction with a computer display or its environment. In most cases, symptoms occur because the visual demands of the task exceed the visual abilities of the individual to comfortably perform the task. *

*American Optometric Association. Guide to the clinical aspects of computer vision syndrome. St. Louis: American Optometric Association, 1995:1.

The symptoms of CVS can include:

> Headaches,
> Eye strain – eg. muscular pain in or around the eyes,
> Eye irritation – eg. dry, red or burning eyes,
> Blurred or double vision,
> Difficulty focusing,
> Neck and shoulder pain,
> General fatigue.

The AOA estimates that close to 90 percent of the 70 million U.S. workers who use computers will experience eyestrain and vision problems. And for those who spend more than three hours a day working at their computers, these symptoms are precursors of more far-reaching problems of low morale and reduced productivity. Laboratory studies cited in articles appearing in the Journal of the American Optometric Association indicate that even small amounts of visual degradation can reduce productivity anywhere from 4 to 8 percent.

Eye specialists recommend that you:

> Look away and focus on a distant object every few minutes
> Use a filter screen or glasses to reduce glare from your monitor
> Take a break every twenty minutes to rest your eyes
> Eliminate excessive glare from overhead lighting
> See an eye specialist for professional advice
> Remember to blink often
> Use artificial tears to help keep your eyes moist
> Keep your computer monitor clean
> Ensure your posture is correct

How does the imate help?

The imate can help you avoid CVS as it encourages you to look away from the monitor more often (thus allowing you to focus your eyes on something other than the screen). Also, when someone or something moves behind you, it tempts you to look up (often blinking at the same time). Both of these actions help to refresh the fluid in your eyes.

Beyond that, the imate helps you to feel better about where you work as it opens up a view of your surroundings.