Could You Have Video Display Trauma?
Signs, Symptoms and Avoidance of VDT
VDT is caused by staring intently at a video display terminal for long periods of time. CDT occurs when there are conditions on the screen that distract reflections, text is blurred, lighting is poor and screen flickers put strain on the eyes.
Symptoms of having video display trauma can be so strong that a person feels physically ill when they attempt to work a computer. Video display trauma falls into the cumulative trauma disorders category which represents disorders caused by small stresses or injury on the body. Other common cumulative trauma disorders include Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Repetitive Stress Injury.
If you can answer yes to the following symptoms you should act now and change your computer setup to one that is more ergonomically friendly.
Signs You May Have VDT
Fatigue
Lack of Attention Span
Tired or Dry Eyes
Nausea
Migraine Headaches
Neck and Shoulder Tension and/or Aches
Trouble Focusing on Long Distances
Double Vision
Runny or Tearing Eyes
Flu-like Symptoms but No Developing Flu or Cold
Sleep Disruptions
How to Avoid Getting VDT
There are techniques you can use in your everyday work environment whether it's at work or home that you can use to help avoid coming down with VDT. Here's how to set up an ergonomically friendly work space.
The Screen - Position your monitor so that the top toolbars on your screen are no higher than your eye level. You should have to look slightly downward at the screen. Make sure the brightness is set to low and the contrast is set to high. Clean your screen regularly to eliminate dust and grime. Situate the monitor so there are no glares from windows or lights. If need be keep your blinds pulled down when you are on the computer. Use a glare filter if the room is still too bright and creates a glare.
Chairs - The best type of chair to use is one that has wheels and five legs. It's best to use a chair that swivels to avoid twisting the upper body when you are seated. Keep arm rests close to the body so that your arms can rest on them to help alleviate fatigue in your shoulders and arms. Make sure your chair is adjusted so that your elbows and knees are at 90 degree angles.
Breaks - Take regular breaks away from the computer. Spend that time stretching and looking around to help with aches and eye strain. Breaks should happen about every two hours and only need to be for about 10 minutes or so.
Eye Exams - Schedule regular eye exams with an optometrist. The only way to know if the computer is affecting your eye sight is to have them checked.
Blink Frequently - Blinking replenishes the moisture in your eye and distracts it from staring too long. Blink frequently when reading the screen and remind yourself to look away from the monitor every couple of minutes.
Published by Kelly Spies
I'm just a chick with a lot to say about different things. I've been writing for most of my life and aspire to someday be a published novelist as well as content writer. View profile
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- VDT stands for video display trauma.
- Sufferers of VDT sometimes feel like they have the flu.
- VDT can be avoided by using ergonomic techniques.