Computer Vision Syndrome

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Understanding Computer Vision Syndrome

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) refers to a variety of visual symptoms that have become increasingly common as people spend more time daily on computers, tablets, and smartphones. Studies suggest that most people who use computers regularly experience some degree of CVS. With increased screen time for work, school and everyday activities, more people are experiencing digital eye discomfort.

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is also known as digital eye strain. It is a group of symptoms caused by extended screen use. CVS is not limited to adults, it is affecting individuals of all ages.  With the increased use of school computers, tablets and smartphones, children are also becoming more susceptible to CVS.

CVS occurs when prolonged screen use causes your eyes to work harder, especially when your vision or eyeglass prescription is not properly optimized for computer use. Additional factors such as glare, screen flicker and improper brightness settings can also contribute to eye discomfort and fatigue.

Symptoms may include:

•  Headaches

•  Blurred vision

•  Dry or itchy eyes

• Tearing

• Red eyes

• Eyestrain and fatigue

• Neck or shoulder pain

Not everyone experiences all of these symptoms, but even a few can make daily tasks like work or school more challenging.

Symptoms may become more noticeable with age, especially after age 40, when presbyopia (the natural loss of the ability to focus on near objects) can make it more difficult to see clearly up close. Symptoms may also be worsened by wearing an outdated or incorrect prescription, which can place additional strain on your eyes.

If you regularly experience these issues, an eye exam with your optometrist is a great first step toward finding relief. Specialized computer glasses may also help reduce symptoms associated with Computer Vision Syndrome.

If Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is not properly addressed, symptoms may worsen and begin to impact your overall quality of life, as well as your performance at work or school.

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Treatment Options

Fortunately, Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) can often be improved with a few simple changes, including adjusting your viewing habits, wearing the proper eyewear, and optimizing your screen settings.

Reduce Glare
Reducing glare from your computer screen is an important step in minimizing eye strain. Glare can add additional stress to your eyes, making screen use more uncomfortable. To reduce glare, try adjusting the angle of your monitor so it does not reflect light directly toward your eyes. You can also lower overhead lighting, install a dimmer switch, or reposition your workspace to reduce the impact of natural light. Adjusting blinds or shades can help control incoming light, and a glare-reducing screen filter may provide additional protection.
 

Move Your Desk
Your ideal monitor position is slightly below eye level and approximately 20–28 inches away from your eyes. You should be able to view your screen comfortably without adjusting your head position or straining your neck. If your work involves both computer use and printed materials, make sure your eyeglass prescription is optimized for both viewing distances to help reduce eye strain and maintain visual comfort.

Change Your Settings
Simply adjusting your screen settings can significantly reduce eye strain. Increasing or decreasing the brightness, adjusting contrast, and enlarging font size can make content easier to view and improve overall visual comfort.

Take Breaks
Eye breaks don’t need to take up much time to make a difference. Eye care professionals often recommend the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. If you notice your eyes becoming tired or strained, step away from your screen for a few minutes and focus on something in the distance to help relax your eyes.

Update Your Prescription
Reducing the amount of effort your eyes need to focus is an important step in minimizing eye strain. Ensuring that your prescription is accurate and up to date can help reduce unnecessary stress on your eyes. There are also lens options designed to improve screen comfort, including anti-glare coatings that help reduce reflections and glare reaching your eyes. Blue light filtering lenses are another great option to consider for additional comfort during extended screen use.