The sense of sight is indeed a blessing. However, we often overlook this gift and subject our eyes to excessive stress and strain every day. We end up working every day for a good 8-9 hours in front of computer/laptop screens, only to return home and start playing games on our cell phones. And then, there are the social media updates that have become an integral part of most of our lives.
What Is Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer vision syndrome is a term used to describe all eye or vision problems that occur as a result of prolonged computer use. It is also commonly referred to as digital eye strain.
Researchers estimate that around 50%-90% of individuals who work at a computer screen exhibit at least a few symptoms.
However, it is not only the working adults who are affected. Children who stare at tablets or computers for too long can also develop issues, especially if the lighting and their posture are suboptimal.
How Do Computers Affect Vision?
Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as other motion (repetitive) injuries you are likely to get at work. It is caused by the repetitive movement of your eyes in the same path for long durations.
When you are constantly looking at the computer, your eyes have to focus and refocus repeatedly. They keep moving back and forth from the computer to other things you may have to read or write down in between. They also react to the changing images on the computer screens.
While such jobs may look easy, they require a lot of energy from your eye muscles.
Let’s now take a look at the causes.
What Causes Computer Vision Syndrome Or Digital Eye Strain?
Some common causes of computer vision syndrome are:
- Not using your reading or anti-glare glasses regularly
- Advancing age
- Uncorrected ocular (vision) etiologies
- Poor lighting
- Glare on your digital screens
- Improper posture or viewing distances
Individuals with this syndrome exhibit the following signs and symptoms.
Signs And Symptoms
The common signs and symptoms associated with computer vision syndrome are:
- Blurred or double vision
- Eye fatigue
- Floaters
- A burning sensation in the eyes
- Dry eyes
- Eyes may become red and watery
- Irritated eyes
- Headaches
- Back or neck pain
How Is Computer Vision Syndrome Diagnosed?
The ophthalmologist can help diagnose your condition by conducting an eye examination. Special attention might be given to how your eyes work and respond to different distances from the computer screen.
Your doctor may also question you about your symptoms and how much time you spend in front of the computer screen to confirm the diagnosis.
Once diagnosed, you may be asked to make a few simple changes to your working style. The following are some of the widely accepted practices for treating CVS.
How To Treat CVS
Once you are diagnosed with computer vision syndrome, you must visit your ophthalmologist for regular check-ups to prevent your eyesight from deteriorating further.
Medical prescriptions may include glasses or contact lenses as per your requirement. You may be given a regular pair of glasses to wear while looking at the screen, or you may be asked to get a special pair. Single, bifocal lenses, or tinted lenses may also be prescribed to boost contrast while filtering out the glare.
Prevention Tips
While you don’t have to cut down on your screen time completely to prevent computer vision syndrome from resurfacing, a few changes to how you use them can make things easier on your eyes.
- Use an anti-glare screen filter or a matte screen filter on your computer, phone, and tablet screens.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule.
- Take a break, for say, about 15 minutes, after every 2 hours of using the screen continuously.
- If your eyes tend to feel dry often, use artificial tears to lubricate them.
- Place a humidifier in the room, close to the screens, to prevent your eyes from drying.
- Make sure the lighting of your surroundings is bright enough for your screens.
- If you are a contact lens user, wear your glasses and give your lenses a break while using the computer screen.
- Get your eyes checked by an eye care specialist regularly.
- Follow a healthy diet that is rich in various vitamins and minerals.
- Practice eye exercises like blinking slowly, rotating your eyes in the clockwise direction, or simply looking far away for a few seconds now and then.
The way you sit in front of your screen and the distance at which you sit from it also play a significant role in treating computer vision syndrome.
Proper Body Positioning While Using A Computer
Sit close to the keyboard and position it right in front of your body.
Adjust your keyboard level in such a way that your shoulders are relaxed, and your wrists and hands are parallel to the keyboard.
- Wrist rests can help.
- Sit at an arm’s length from the computer screen.
- Position the screen slightly below your eye level.
- The centre of the screen should be at least 10-15 degrees below your eye level.
- Take small breaks every 1-2 hours.
- Do not use the digital screens during your break.
It is very easy to neglect the misery you put your eyes through in your busy day-to-day life. However, a little care and a few lifestyle adjustments can go a long way in promoting healthy eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for computer vision syndrome to go away?
Computer vision syndrome is a temporary condition that may last from a few minutes to a few days. If left unattended, it can cause further damage to your eyes.
Is computer vision syndrome permanent?
Computer vision syndrome typically has no long-term effects and is usually a temporary condition.
How can I relax my eyes from stress?
To relax your eyes from constant stress, blink them every 20 minutes and look into the distance. You can also try placing the base of your palms on your eyes for a few seconds.