Dr. Nguyen Duc Huy, a Level I Specialist in High-tech Ophthalmology at Tam Anh General Clinic District 7, addresses this common concern for many working professionals.

Many professions require extended hours of computer work, a prevalent cause of eye problems if not properly prevented. When focusing intently on a computer screen, individuals often blink less frequently. This reduced blinking leads to tears evaporating quickly, resulting in symptoms such as dryness, temporary blurred vision, and rapid eye fatigue. Some individuals also experience headaches, dizziness, and decreased concentration after prolonged screen time.

Dr. Huy examines a young patient's eyes. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Spending long periods in front of a computer can also worsen refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism, particularly in children and adolescents. Continuous near vision forces the eyes to over-accommodate, which can eventually cause distant blurriness and an increase in myopia.

Blue light emitted from screens is a significant factor contributing to sleep disturbances. This light inhibits melatonin, a hormone secreted by the brain that regulates sleep and the body's circadian rhythm. Consequently, computer use in the evening can make it difficult to fall asleep, indirectly affecting eye health and overall well-being the following day.

However, these adverse effects can be prevented or limited through various methods. Individuals who work with computers should adopt the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object about 6 meters away for 20 seconds to allow the eyes to relax. Maintain a distance of approximately 50-70 centimeters between your eyes and the computer screen, and ensure you work in a well-lit environment to prevent eye strain. You can also use artificial tears every 3-4 hours if your eyes show signs of dryness. Schedule annual eye examinations or seek professional help immediately if you experience any abnormalities, such as persistent blurred vision or eye pain.

Dr. Nguyen Duc Huy

High-tech Ophthalmology Department,

Tam Anh General Clinic District 7