I’ve got bad news for you, babes. You’re staring at your screen too much.

Yup, I know. I’m guilty too. But if you spend long periods of time staring at your computer screen, you could be causing yourself to have a condition called computer vision syndrome, eeeeek!!

Picture this: you’ve worked at your desk all day, you’re scrolling your Instagram on your lunch break, and by the time 5 p.m. rolls around, you can hardly see straight anymore. Your eyes are tired, red, and just plain feel YUCK. Doesn’t this scenario seem all too familiar….?

Unfortunately, you’re not alone; in fact, the majority of office workers suffer from computer vision syndrome (CVS). CVS is a term used to describe computer-related eyestrain.

Although CVS sounds super scary and serious, luckily it doesn’t cause permanent damage. But, it can lead to:

• Headaches
• Temporary blurred vision
• Burning, stinging, or tearing of eyes
• Eye fatigue and pain

Ewwwww. But, even worse, my friends, is that in addition to working at computers, you also are at risk for developing computer vision syndrome if you:

• Regularly use a smart phone, e-reader, or tablet
• Work in poor lighting
• Have poor posture while sitting at your desk
• Already have other vision-related problems

Ok so that pretty much is like 99.99% of all people reading this right now. But don’t worry friends. I got you! By adapting a few simple changes I’m outlining below you should be able to reduce the discomfort you’re experiencing. You can thank me later! These include:

• Position your computer so that the screen is easier on your eyes. Place the monitor directly in front of you, between 18 to 24 inches from your eyes. The top of the screen should be at or below eye level.
• Move your keyboard. Your keyboard should be directly in front of the monitor with your reference materials placed at the same level, angle, and distance from your eyes.
• Minimize glare from bright lights by positioning your light source at a right angle to the monitor.
• Take a 20 second break from the screen and focus on more distant objects every 20 minutes.
• Blink more. You blink less than normal when you look at a screen. Make an effort to blink frequently and use artificial tears if necessary.

In addition to my recommendations above, special computer glasses can also help. Don’t forget to schedule your annual eye exam and talk with your eye doctor today if your symptoms continue. Tell them Dr. Brasfield sent ya!!