Computer Vision Syndrome

Computers are a common part of everyday life for many people. Whether we are using a computer monitor at work or staring at our cellphones, we may spend hours on digital devices.

All that computer time can lead to vision issues, such as computer vision syndrome. The article below covers what computer vision syndrome is, its symptoms, and how to prevent it. 
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What is computer vision syndrome? 

Computer vision syndrome is a fancy name for eyestrain. Eyestrain has always been around. Activities such as driving for long periods can cause eyestrain.

In the age of computers, eyestrain has increased. Computer eyestrain occurs due to staring at a computer screen for extended periods. The amount of time it takes to develop eyestrain varies depending on the person.

Computer vision syndrome does not cause permanent vision problems, but it can cause temporary issues, such as dry eyes, dizziness, and blurry vision. 
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Symptoms of computer vision syndrome 

Symptoms of computer vision syndrome can start any time after using a digital device, but the longer a person uses the device, the more intense symptoms may become.

Possible symptoms include:

• Dry eyes
• Itchy eyes
• Blurred vision
• Headaches
• Neck pain

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Causes

The cause of computer vision syndrome is staring at a digital device screen for long periods. The intensity of symptoms may depend on how long you use the device and whether you have any underlying eye issues. For instance, if you already suffer from dry eyes, your symptoms of computer vision syndrome may come on fast.

The following factors may also increase your risk:

• Spending hours every day on the computer
• Bad posture at your computer
• Sitting too close to your computer screen
• Vision issues not corrected by lenses or glasses 

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Treatment 

Treatment for computer vision syndrome may involve a few different things, including:

Reduce screen time: This may seem like a no-brainer, but try to limit screen time as much as possible. For example, do not use the computer to watch movies or read books. Take a break from digital devices altogether at a certain time each evening.

Adjustments in contact lenses or eyeglasses: According to Penn Medicine, about 71 percent of people that have reported having symptoms of computer vision syndrome wear contact lenses or glasses. In some cases, you may need an adjustment to your prescription, which will reduce eyestrain.

Eyedrops: Eyedrops are a simple fix to reduce irritation, redness, and burning that can occur with computer vision syndrome. Talk to your eye doctor about which types of eyedrops may be best. 
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Prevention 

While it is doubtful we will give up our computers anytime soon, there are simple things you can do to prevent computer vision syndrome. Consider the following:

Practice 20-20-20: The 20-20-20 rule applies to all types of digital devices. It works like this: When using your computer, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds, about every 20 minutes. This allows your eyes to get a quick break and may prevent eyestrain.

Use good posture: Adjusting your chair so your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle with feet on the floor puts your back, neck, and shoulders in correct alignment. Sitting with good posture also helps put your head and eyes in correct alignment so you do not strain to see the screen.

Adjust your screen distance: According to Cedars Sinai, you should place your computer screen about five inches below eye level.

Blink: It is not something we think about, but blinking frequently helps reduce eyestrain. Blinking helps keep your eyes lubricated. Try to remember to blink a little bit more often when using a computer.

If you do have signs and symptoms of computer vision syndrome, see your eye doctor. Your eye doctor may recommend treatment to ease irritation and blurry vision.

If you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.