Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) also called Digital Eye Strain,describes a group of eye and Binocular vision related problems that result from prolonged laptop, tablet, e-readers and mobile phones use. Several people experience eye discomfort and vision issues when seeing digital screens for extended periods. The level of discomfort seems to extend with the amount of digital screen use.

More individuals are progressively getting dependent on computers in their everyday routine and this has brought  various well-being concerns like ocular discomfort, muscular strain and stress.

CVS affects most people who work for over 3 hours a day in front of the computer screen, particularly youngsters and grown-ups above 40 years old.

Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome

The degree to which people experience visual symptoms often depends on quality of their visual abilities, binocular vision functions and the amount of time spent looking at a computer screen.Uncorrected vision problems like astigmatism, farsightedness, inadequate eye focusing or eye coordination abilities, and aging changes of the eyes, such aspresbyopia, would all be able to add to the development of visual symptoms when using a computer or digital screen device.

Common symptoms associated with Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) are 

  • Blurred Vision
  • Burning of eyes 
  • Neck/Shoulder pain 
  • Eyestrain and Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Irritation and redness of eyes

Causes of Computer Vision Syndrome

There are various components that determine the amount of strain your body feels as you work on a PC or other advanced gadgets, incorporating distance from the screen, lightening in the room, seating posture, glare on the screen and angle of your head. One of these may consolidate to bring about an uncomfortable amount of strain on your eyes.Some other includes

  • Binocular vision function abnormality
  • Infrequent blinking 
  • Wrong work place ergonomics 
  • Presbyopia or Bifocal Glasses

Treatment for Computer Vision Syndrome

  • Use of artificial tears to cure dry eyes
  • Wearing right power glasses 

Vision Therapy to improve convergence and other binocular eye problems Vision Therapy includes a variety of activities using gadgets like prisms, lenses and computerised programs. This can help patients to develop or enhance visual comfort, as, fundamental visual skills and abilities and efficiency. 

Common tips for reducing or even preventing the effects of Computer Vision Syndrome

  • Ensure the lighting in the room is comfortable on the eyes, and keeps you from gazing into glare on the computer screen 
  • Position the digital devices so that your head is in a normally comfortable position while using 
  • 20-20-20 rule - Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus your eyes on something at least 20 feet away to relax your eyes
  • Ensure your seat is comfortable. A comfortable seat with backing for your neck and back will help you keep away from neck and shoulder strain usually connected with computer vision syndrome.