Do hours of computer work leave you with tired, dry eyes, and blurry vision? Perhaps even headaches or neck aches? 

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) has become quite common as our offices and homes have become less paper-oriented and more computer-centric.  Computer glasses are designed specifically to provide relief from these symptoms.

What are "computer glasses"?

First, they are not reading glasses. Reading glasses are optimized for the distance to a book in your hand and a slightly downward direction.  Similarly, computer glasses are designed for the greater distance from your eyes to your computer monitor and a forward viewing direction.  Trying to use reading glasses for computer work can lead to neck strain, because you may have to lean in closer to get the clearest vision, and you may have to tip your head up to view the screen through the lower part of eyeglasses normally used for reading.

Computer glasses also have anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare and reflections that cause eye strain.

Multi-purpose glasses

Wearers of progressive lenses, also known as no-line bifocals, can also benefit from a separate pair of computer glasses.  Progressive lenses are usually designed for reading through the lower part of the lens and for long-distance viewing, like driving, through the upper part of the lens.  The computer screen sits at an intermediate distance, so standard progressive lenses are not well suited for prolonged computer use.

Does your work day involve an even mix of reading and computer work?  Occupational progressive lenses can be made with a lower reading window and an upper intermediate window, such that a single pair of glasses can be used for both reading and computer work. Some even have a third window in the upper part of the lens for distance viewing such that a glance up will tell you if that is your boss approaching.

Clearly there are many options to chose from and many factors to consider.  Your optician can guide you through the process of selecting the correct features for your eyeglasses to meet your visual needs.

Other ways to find relief from CVS

Whether you need computer glasses or not, hours of screen time can strain your eyes, leaving them feeling dry, tired, and difficult to focus.  You can find some relief by taking routine eye breaks, looking off into the distance, away from your monitor and blinking slowly to lubricate your eyes.  Another technique: try warming your hands by rubbing them together, then cupping them over your eyes, and blinking slowly for half a minute in the dark.

Your desk arrangement is also an important factor to consider.  Headaches and neck aches can be the result of leaning in to compensate for visual difficulties, but independent of how well you can see the screen, your chair, keyboard and monitor all must be positioned correctly to avoid straining your frame.  The American Optometric Association has an excellent article describing workstation setup for comfortable computer use.

Where in the Lehigh Valley can you get computer glasses?

Why, MarVal Optical, of course!