Many people experience vision problems and eye discomfort when staring at digital screens for long periods. Usually, the discomfort level depends on the time spent on the activity. Do you frequently use a computer at work or home? If you do, you probably have a good idea of what computer vision syndrome is. 

 

However, experiencing this problem does not mean you must stop using your digital devices. The way you view digital screens can make a huge difference. Thus, you should learn about the symptoms and causes of this condition, in addition to lifestyle changes that can help prevent it. 

 

What Is Computer Vision Syndrome?

CVS is an umbrella term describing several eye-related issues that stem from the prolonged use of digital screens. Often, there is a direct correlation between the level of discomfort you experience and the amount of time you spend staring at a digital screen.

 

According to recent reports, there has been a significant increase in cases of computer vision syndrome since the COVID-19 pandemic hit.  

 

Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome

Staring at a digital screen for prolonged periods forces your eyes to work harder. This can cause problems for people susceptible to the development of certain vision-related symptoms. Furthermore, digital screens can decrease your blink rate by up to two-thirds, which can cause too much eye soreness. Blinking removes any debris from the eyes and keeps them lubricated. Some of the most common symptoms of computer vision syndrome include:

 

• Dry, red eyes
   

• Blurred vision
   

• Eye irritation
   

• Double vision
   

• Back or neck pain
   

• Headaches
  
   

Left unaddressed, this condition can affect more than your eyes. For example, it could affect your work performance. However, prevention is always better than cure. Some of the ways to prevent computer vision syndrome include:

 

Adjust the Brightness of Your Computer

Your computer monitor’s brightness setting should complement the amount of light in your home or office workspace. The brightness in a normal office measures between 300 and 500 lux.

 

Thus, you should adjust your monitor’s brightness to somewhere between 100 and 150 cd/m2 to compensate for your workspace brightness. But if your surroundings are darker or brighter than your typical office, you should adjust your display accordingly.

 

Use Anti-glare Glasses

Anti-glare computer glasses help eliminate reflections from the back and front surfaces of your lenses. This can be beneficial when using a computer. It can also help you feel more comfortable while using a computer for prolonged periods. 

 

Avoid Slouching and Leaning Forward

Incorrect posture can worsen your eyestrain since your eyes will have to work harder. Additionally, it can cause shoulder and neck pain. Ideally, sit upright on a chair with lower back support to encourage the natural S-curve of your spine. 

 

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

This means taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away after 20 minutes of staring at a digital screen. Other ways to prevent computer vision syndrome include:

 

• Raise your laptop or monitor if it is too low to avoid squinting at the screen and slouching
   

• Sit between 20 and 40 inches away from the screen. Ideally, sit about an arm’s length away from your computer screen
  
  
   

For more on computer vision syndrome, contact Vision One Eyecare Center at our offices in Fort Mitchell or Dry Ridge, Kentucky. You can call (859) 267-1700 or (859) 407-7400 today to schedule an appointment.