With the advent of the digital age and the subsequent shift in our lifestyle, we've become increasingly dependent on computers and other digital devices. As a result, a significant number of people are experiencing discomfort and visual disturbances due to extended usage of these devices - a condition known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).
 

What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

Computer Vision Syndrome is a group of eye and vision-related issues resulting from prolonged computer use. Many individuals experience eye discomfort and vision problems when viewing digital screens for extended periods. The level of discomfort appears to increase with the amount of digital screen use.
 

It's not a single specific problem but rather a whole range of issues that fall under this umbrella term. The American Optometric Association defines CVS as "the complex of eye and vision problems related to near work which are experienced during or related to computer use."
 

What are the Causes of Computer Vision Syndrome?

The primary cause of computer vision syndrome is the high visual demands of computer work. Unlike printed text, digital screens often have less contrast between the background and the letters, and the images on the screen can change their brightness and contrast levels suddenly, which can strain your eyes.
 

Another cause is poor lighting, glare, or improper viewing distances, all of which force the eyes to work harder to view the content on the screen. Additionally, people often position their digital devices in ways that contribute to discomfort and other CVS symptoms.
 

Finally, pre-existing vision issues can be a significant factor in developing CVS. People with uncorrected vision problems like farsightedness, astigmatism, inadequate eye focusing or eye coordination abilities, and aging changes of the eyes, such as presbyopia, are more likely to develop symptoms of CVS when working on a computer or using other digital screens.
 

Recognizing the Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome

The symptoms of CVS can vary from person to person, but some common complaints include eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck and shoulder pain. These symptoms can be caused by poor lighting, glare on a digital screen, improper viewing distances, poor seating posture, or a combination of these factors.
 

Eyestrain is the most common symptom of Computer Vision Syndrome. You might feel a strain to focus on the words or images on the screen, or you might have difficulty shifting focus between the screen and other tasks.
 

Headaches, often in the forehead or temples, are another common symptom of CVS. These are often tension headaches, the result of muscle strain caused by holding your head in one position for a long time or from working in a stressful position.
 

The Role of Updated Prescription Glasses in Managing Computer Vision Syndrome

Regular eye examinations and appropriate corrective lenses could be crucial in preventing or reducing the symptoms of CVS. If you're using an old prescription for your glasses or contacts, it might not provide the optimal vision correction for the specific viewing distances of your computer screen. Updating your prescription can instantly relieve some of the strain on your eyes and alleviate some of the symptoms of CVS.
 

In some cases, individuals without previously known vision issues may discover they need corrective lenses after experiencing symptoms of CVS. In other cases, people who already wear glasses or contact lenses may need a different type of lens for computer work.
 

How Blue Light Lenses Can Help Mitigate Computer Vision Syndrome

Our exposure to blue light, especially the harsh kind emitted by digital screens, is at an all-time high. This constant exposure can be harmful to our eyes and has been linked to eye strain and other symptoms of CVS. Using blue light lenses, or blue light-blocking glasses, can help mitigate these issues.
 

Blue-light lenses have a special coating that blocks or absorbs the blue light emitted by digital screens, reducing exposure to it. This can help reduce eye strain and prevent other symptoms of computer vision syndrome.
 

Tips for Preventing Computer Vision Syndrome

Prevention is always better than cure, and this holds true for CVS as well. Following good computer habits can help prevent or reduce your risk of developing CVS. These include taking regular breaks from the computer screen, practicing good posture, and ensuring your workspace is ergonomically set up.
 

Another critical preventative measure is the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple practice can go a long way toward reducing the strain on your eyes.
 

When to Seek Professional Help

If you're experiencing persistent symptoms of computer vision syndrome, it's advisable to seek professional help. An optometrist can conduct specific tests to detect CVS, such as a detailed questionnaire about your symptoms, work habits, and working environment, a comprehensive eye examination, and tests to determine the patient's ability to focus on close objects.
 

Your doctor might recommend treatments such as prescription eyewear designed for computer use, vision therapy, or even modifications to your workstation.
 

Take Steps to Protect Your Eyes from Computer Vision Syndrome Today

Computer vision syndrome is a widespread condition in our digital age. However, with the right understanding and preventative measures, it's possible to mitigate the effects and protect your eyes. Regular breaks, proper posture, good lighting, and updated prescription glasses can all contribute to healthier computer use.

If you're experiencing any symptoms of computer vision syndrome, visit Dr. Fallon Patel and Associates in Oakville, Burlington, and Hamilton, Ontario. For our clinic in Oakville, call 905-845-5653; for Burlington, call us at 289-266-0284; and for our Hamilton offices, call 289-678-0121 to schedule an appointment today.