Eye Care for Computer Users

Eye Care for Computer Users

Eyestrain, headaches, dry or irritated eyes and temporarily blurred vision are a problem for many people who use computers (visual display units, or VDUs) regularly.

Whether you use a computer at work, home or both, a routine eye test every two years is essential to ensure you're not subjecting yourself to unnecessary eyestrain. Headaches, dry or irritated eyes and temporarily blurred vision are a problem for some people who use computers regularly. Your eyes are in good hands at D&A The Opticians: we pride ourselves on providing you with the best eyecare on the high street and our thorough eye tests take just 25 minutes of your time.

If you need a computer for your job, you may not realise that you may be entitled to have an eye test paid for by your employer. And that if the Optometrist recommends glasses solely for use with a computer/VDU, your employer may also have to provide eyewear.

If you're an employer, click here to find out about D&A Vision Care - our well-established scheme that simplifies the business of safeguarding your employees' visual health.

Advice for computer users

• Take regular breaks to give your eyes a rest. Look beyond your computer every 20 minutes, or walk away from the screen.
• Keep blinking to prevent dry eyes.
• Check that your monitor is 33cm-59cm from your eyes and that the centre of your screen is 10cm-15cm below your natural eye level.
• Ideally, position your screen so that windows and lights are to the side of it.
• If your computer is an old model, fit an anti-glare filter. Better still, replace it with a new monitor to benefit from minimal distortion, glare and reflection.
• Keep your screen clean.

If you need new glasses, ask for lenses with an anti-reflection coating on them to reduce visual strain. At D&A we recommend Nikon lenses. We also offer a new range of office lenses specifically for computer users.