February 23, 2012
The health problems associated with daily computer use.
This paper represents a general summary of some of the health issues associated with computer use. The number of computers users is growing rapidly. Growing as rapidly are the health problems associated with computer use. Dry and irritated eyes, visual fatigue, and back pain, are among the symptoms most frequently related to computer use. Adolescents are also experiencing problems related to computer use, such as emotional and psychiatric symptoms. Most problems related to computer use are preventable. There are several precautions that can be taken by computer users to avoid problems.
Computer users often report complaints of eye dryness, fatigue and burning sensations. When we sit in front of the computer for long hours, and we focus or eyes on the computer we reduce the rate of blinking. Since eye blinking reduces significantly, it leads to dryness. Another problem with less blinking is less circulation to the eyes. Poor eye circulation, causes irritation, and can seriously affect your eyes, and vision.
Blinking regularly, and exercising the eyes by periodically focusing on objects at varying distance, reduces eyestrain .As I mention before when working at a computer we blink less frequently. Blinking will keep your eyes moist and will prevent dryness and irritation. To prevent visual fatigue exercise your eyes by using the “3-B” approach: blink, breathe and break. Or, the 20/ 20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. (Anshel).
Glare is the largest single factor in the work place. However, simple changes in your work station such as; positioning monitors so the screen is perpendicular to windows, or by situating your desk lamp is such a way that does not shine on your computer, or into your eyes will avoid glare.
Studies have shown that the diagnosis and treatment of computer cost almost US$ 2 billion each year (Richard W. Yee). Most problems related