Technology

Eyestrain SOS: Computer Glasses to the Rescue

computer glasses

Many of us can spend up to 10 hours a day in front of a computer screen, and for online gamers or internet bloggers this number can increase.  It is common to experience some unpleasant symptoms after prolonged use, and it is vital to take steps to protect your health.  One method of dealing with this problem is to invest in an ergonomic computer chair and follow the 20-20-20 rule.  This involves taking a break every 20 minutes and focusing on an object 20 feet away from you for 20 seconds.  As well as pain located in the neck and back, users can experience eye strain from working for long periods at a computer screen, and this can manifest as headaches, dry eyes, and blurred vision.  Thankfully opticians have provided a solution, and computer glasses are now available for users that suffer with vision problems caused by excessive computer use.

Computer glasses are specifically designed to provide relief for those who are suffering from Computer Vision Syndrome.  This term is used to describe a whole host of symptoms that can be experienced after prolonged screen use.  Computer glasses are available in many different forms, and can be made to prescription.  This is essential for those who wear contact lenses, and you can first purchase your contact lenses online at Lenstore online.  The three main types of glasses are single vision lenses, flat-top bifocal, and variable focus.  Single vision lenses are the most popular and allow wearers to view their computer monitor using the entire lens.  Flat-top bifocals are designed so that the top part of the lens is used for viewing the computer screen, and the bottom half is for viewing closer objects.  Variable focus lenses are divided into three parts with the top part designated for viewing items at a distance, the middle section for viewing the computer, and the bottom segment is for close objects.

Most computer glasses will contain an anti-reflective coating on the lens which is designed to reduce glare from the screen.  There are two methods of applying this protective coating to glasses, and the quality of the coating is reflected in the price of the glasses.  The cheaper method is to dip the lenses into the coating which will provide protection to wearers, but this method will often lead to the lenses becoming more susceptible to smudges and scratches.  Over time, the coating will eventually begin to peel off, so it is a good idea to invest in glasses that have the coating incorporated into the lens themselves.  This can involve ‘baking’ the coating onto the lens, or applying it during the creation of the lens.  Some computer glasses will have a yellow tint to the glass which filters out harsh lighting from the screen, but many users find them to be unattractive.

There are many different places to purchase computer glasses, and many opticians now stock them.  If you are unable to locate a retailer in your area, you can purchase them online from a large number of different websites.  Gunnar is one of the leading manufacturers in computer eyewear and caters to both US and European markets.  They provide glasses that are specifically tailored to suit different types of computer users such as those who play online games, office workers, and web designers.  Most retailers offer glasses that are compatible with prescription eyewear, and your current optician can assist you in deciding the right pair for your requirements.  Our eyes are one of our most precious organs, so it is essential to protect them from strain and permanent damage whilst working at a computer.