Computer Vision Syndrome

Overview

In a society dominated by computers, many of us are finding ourselves staring at a computer screen for hours on end every single day. While there is no evidence that this is in any way harmful to your eyes, there is no doubt that it can cause them a lot of stress (aka. eye strain, or asthenopia). Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a relatively new term that is now commonly used to describe the ocular symptoms that are related to prolonged computer use. An increasing number of people are seeking medical attention for the eye strain and eye irritation caused by prolonged computer use, in addition to the long-recognized back, neck, and wrist problems.

Figure: The "V" to the left is an example of the magnified solid image you would find in a book or any other type of newsprint while the "V" to the right is an example of the magnified pixelated image you would see on a computer screen.

The reason why eyes become irritated when viewing computers and not when reading a book, for instance, is because the eyes are actually working harder to keep computer images in focus. Computer images and text are made up of many tiny pixels rather than one solid image, which is more difficult to keep in focus (see Figure). Dry eyes and irritated eyes that can also result from prolonged computer use are often a result of a dramatic decrease in blink rate when using the computer. The eyes are left open and exposed to air for a longer period of time, which tends to dry them out.

Signs & Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome

The most common complaint associated with ocular complications of prolonged computer use is eye strain (asthenopia). Additional symptoms can include blurred vision when alternating between near and far targets, headache, dry eyes or irritated eyes, light sensitivity (photophobia), and double vision (diplopia).

Detection & Diagnosis of Computer Vision Syndrome

Computer vision syndrome can generally be diagnosed by an eyecare professional simply by listening to the patient's account of symptoms and daily activities.

Computer Vision Syndrome Treatment & Prevention

Treatment for computer vision syndrome is actually quite simple but unfortunately requires a great deal of conscious effort to break bad habits on the part of the sufferer. Symptoms of computer vision syndrome can be significantly reduced simply by making an effort to:

Blink more often.
Look away from the computer screen once in a while.
Improve the lighting conditions so the screen and the background behind it are equally bright. This prevents eye strain that develops from trying to read off a dark screen when there is a bright background behind it.
Get rid of sources of glare (turn your monitor so that it receives no glare from light fixtures, etc).
Invest in some artificial tears if you are experiencing significant symptoms of dry eyes.

Back, neck, and wrist problems can be alleviated by adjusting chair, keyboard, and monitor heights to fit the standards of ergonomics. Wrist supports are an invaluable addition to many keyboard and help to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome.

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