What are Computer Glasses?

Different Types of Computer Glasses

Depending on your vision and how you work on a computer screen, there are several types of computer glasses to choose, such as:

• Occupational Progressive Lenses: This is a multifocal solution that corrects near, intermediate and distance vision, providing you with largest field of vision.
• Monofocal Lenses: These are single-vision glasses designed to provide the appropriate optical correction for your intermediate zone of vision or the distance between you and the computer screen. This will allow you to view the entire computer screen with minimum head tilting. You can also view multiple screens by simply moving your eyes rather than having to tilt your head or turn your body.
• Bifocal Lenses: Our doctors can write a prescription so that the upper segment of your bifocal glasses are set up for computer screen distance and the lower is designed for near vision or reading fine print.
• Trifocal Lenses: Trifocal glasses provide three segments for far, near and intermediate vision.

Aside from the type of computer glasses you want to use, you can also add features for added comfort and vision support, including:

• Antireflective Coating: Also referred to as antiglare coating, it eliminates reflections of light from your lenses for reduced eye strain and to prevent glare from overhead lighting.
• Photochromic Lenses: Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, these lenses can help protect your eyes from computer strain and harmful UV rays by automatically darkening in the sunlight.

Computer Vision Syndrome

Blurred vision, redness and eye fatigue are all symptoms of computer vision syndrome. When you stare at a screen for a prolonged amount of time, your eyes have to work hard to adapt to the wavelengths being emitted. Computer vision syndrome isn’t one specific problem but a range of symptoms, including:

• Eye discomfort
• Headaches
• Itchy eyes
• Dry or watering eyes
• Burning sensations
• Changes in color perception
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty focusing

Research has shown that between 50% to 90% of people who work on computer screens will experience symptoms of computer vision syndrome. Working adults are not the only ones susceptible to these symptoms. Children who spend long hours using computers for school or playing video games may also experience these side effects. Wearing glasses to protect your eyes from the computer screen can help reduce some of these unwanted symptoms.

Computer Screen and Permanent Eye Damage

Staring at a computer screen for more than two consecutive hours a day can lead to computer vision syndrome or worsen existing eye conditions. Common eye problems that can contribute to eye strain during computer use are:

• Refractive errors like farsightedness or myopia
• Inadequate focusing of the eyes or eye coordination problems
• Aging eyes, including the development of presbyopia