Computers have become human beings’ commonest companions. Being work tools, entertainers, information storage, communication tool and a source of children’s games, we are constantly gazing at a computer screen for up to 18 out of 24 hours a day. This can be detrimental to all but worse to the younger children who would not even be keen on adjusting the settings.

Human eyes are wonderful cameras that see color, guide the brain and as far as computers are concerned, eyes and hands are always o the computer encoding, reading and working on data and information.

The computer screens are not friendly to the eyes especially if the personal computer use is continuous. Computer users need to take precaution, as this article will discuss.

First, the visual display unit commonly referred to as the monitor has a window that can be used to alter the brightness; adjust it to a level comfortable for the eyes. The user can also adjust font size to one not strenuous for his eyes. Another thing one can do is to invest in an antiglare screen protector that will avoid unnecessary brightness on the computer screen.

The second way looks funny but it really works. Blinking is important to the eye. Doing it often or closing the eyes for a few minutes amid an activity does the eye a favor. It helps regulate fluid level of the eyes just as yawning does when we are sleepy or bored. This is easy and it does not require any special equipment. So, pause your reading here, blink, then proceed.

Another idea is that of using ‘eye wetting’ drops especially when there are lots of work to be accomplished. Keep the drops nearby and use them from time to time to avoid dryness and redness in effect.

Taking frequent breaks is also necessary. They may be brief but taking eyes and the brain off the screen and task probably after every one hour helps the eyes to refresh and cools the brain too. The room in which we are working should have adequate lighting to avoid strain. One must avoid working in a dark room using the screen light as that is damaging but instead have a bright, comfortable light in use.

The distance between the eyes and the computer screen should be about two feet (60 centimeters) or so. When the screen is too close to the eyes, we tend to strain more, just as trying to read a book too close to the eyes. That would have a damaging effect.

The sitting posture is also to be considered. We should sit upright and avoid leaning down wards or upwards, meaning that we ought to sit with our eyes straight to the screen.

The last point I will discuss is using glasses. People who use contact lenses should avoid putting them on when using a computer but take care to use spectacles while those with weak eyesight  should seek photo chromatic lenses from an optician to be well protected. Did you blink? Keep your eyes safe!