Computer vision syndrome, CVS, is becoming one of the most common maladies suffered among office workers. CVS afflicts many of the 75 million Americans who spend a large part of their days with their eyes glued to a computer screen. Another 150 million who use the computer less can still be afflicted with CVS. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health asserts that 88 percent of all computer users will eventually develop CVS.

A computer screen is made up of thousands of pixels, which are actually tiny points of light. As a result, the eyes shift focus between the pixels when you look at a computer screen, which can cause eyestrain. That causes your eyes to wear themselves out by constant refocusing. The result is tired, burning eyes, vision distortion, headaches and back pain.

To avoid the problem, wear computer glasses, blink frequently, use soothing eye drops, and avoid glare. Try to place your monitor at least 20 inches away from your face and 10 to 20 degrees below your line of vision.

Adapted from Painless Vision Quest in Energy Times