In article <mndmic09.18.000EB8D0 at scilab.uct.ac.za>,
mndmic09 at scilab.uct.ac.za wrote:
>If anyone knows about the possible effects computer screens have on eyes, I'd
>appreciate comments and help. My e-mail address is SHRMIC09 at scilab.uct.ac.za>>I am at a bit of a loss. When I use computer screens, my eyes become
sensitive
>to bright light, and I get pixel afterimages which last for several hours or
>days. I've had this for a few years now, but it's become worse lately. I find
>colour monitors affect my eyes more so than the old green/orange monitors.
>>My optometrist was unable to help, except to tell me that my eyes were fine
>(apart from a very slight case of long-sightedness).
Interesting, I also have experienced this problem. However, I find the
sensitivity to bright light is not just due to exposure to the vdu, but
instead due to the fact that the light intensity is often less in areas where
computer screens are used. However, what I hypothesise is that perhaps the
light intensity of the computer screen is either less than normal - hence pain
on exposure to bright light ... or perhaps the intensity is greater and
because we stare hard at the terminal, this intensity is focussed on the
macula lutea. Then the pain experienced is the peripheral photoreceptors
responding to the sudden increase in overall light intensity to the retina
when we venture forth.
As for the pixel after images, I cannot help. But, if you stare fixedly at a
blank wall (for example) you can inwardly focus your eyes and begin to observe
the retinal blood vessels. They appear as fixed lines or spots in your field
of vision. Could it be this? Of course if whenever you close your eyes, the
Win'95 logo appears on your retina ... take a break from computing ... oh and
upgrade to OS/2!
cheers, Alex