Keeping healthey on a computer.

We have some questions from the awesome guys and girls from OPSM in New Plymouth.

1. Will my eyes be damaged if I look at the screen very closely?

Your eyes will not be damaged by looking too closely at the screen but they will get more tired, and quicker, the closer your screen is. We would recommend having your screen at least an arm's length away. Close work causes eye fatigue and dry eyes which can give temporary blurred vision.

2. Are there advice to rest your eyes while on a computer?

It would be best to take a break from the computer at least every 30 minutes. This will give your eyes a chance to 'stretch their muscles' and relax a bit. When you take a break, you should also make sure to look at some far away objects instead of just close objects.

3. Will you need glasses if you look at the screen closely?

Optometrists do see patients that have become short sighted (needing glasses to see in the distance) from too much close up work, especially on computers, tablets, or other electronic devices. Some people are more likely to become short sighted than others, but it is best to take frequent breaks.

4. How can we protect our eyes while looking at a computer?

Take lots of breaks to stop and look at far away objects to rest your eyes. Make sure you take breaks and go outside (with sunglasses, of course!) Use a larger font and a good quality screen and set the screen about an arm's length from your eyes.