Frequently Asked Questions about Computer Vision

When people in Abacoa, Port Saint Lucie, Stewart, West Palm Beach, and Jupiter, FL, do a Google search for “eye doctor near me” or “eye exam near me,” they are looking for advice on computer vision. Here are the answers to the most common questions on computer vision from ophthalmologist Dr. Dominick I. Golio and optometrist Dr. Jacqueline C. Westcott at Visionary Eye Center.

What is computer vision?

Staring at a computer screen for six, eight, ten, or even 12 hours a day is hard on the eyes. When you fix your gaze straight ahead on the computer screen, your eyes don't secrete as many lubricating tears. Ironically, your eyes may overcompensate by becoming water, or dry eyes can irritate and give you an out-of-focus view of the world. You can even get related neck, fingers, and hands symptoms.

What can be done about computer vision?

The golden rule for relieving computer vision is 20 seconds every 20 minutes. Every 20 minutes, take a break from looking at your computer for 20 seconds. Try to look at something at least 20 feet away to give your eyes a break from constantly staring at the screen.

You can also try blinking more to keep your eyes more lubricated. In addition, our optometrist can prescribe blue-light glasses to reduce the eyestrain you experience from staring at flat screens.

What's unique about blue glasses?

Blue-light glasses aren't blue. They are yellow. They block blue light from reaching your eyes, making it easier for your eyes to keep the screen in focus.

We all have strong reactions to blue light. Blue light can keep you awake at night or too early. Our brains respond to the tiniest amount of blue light (even if our eyes are closed) by releasing stress hormones to ensure we get up in time to do everything we need to do during the day.

If you sit in front of a blue screen all day, your brain gets constant signals to churn out stress hormones. Blocking blue light makes it easier to relax your eyes, giving them time off-screen to lubricate and rest.

Do I need to see an eye doctor for blue-light-blocking glasses?

You can buy blue-light-blocking glasses over the counter. Although, it's best to check with your eye doctor first to ensure it isn't another disease or eye condition.

We Provide Visionary Eye Care

Dr. Colio and Dr. Westcott in Visionary Eye Center are here to help you achieve the best vision possible. Call us at (561) 250-0655 for an appointment at our Jupiter Farm office or (561) 429-8753 for meetings at our Military Trail office.