Computer Vision Syndrome Can Ruin Your Day, but It Doesn't Have to

Dr. Landrio & Associates, in Merrick, New York, have been proud to provide preventative, routine, and corrective eye care to help you and your family maintain optimal vision with a nurturing environment for over a decade. Our caring optometry staff provides the latest in diagnostic testing, treatment, services, and technology in a one-on-one approach for eye care. 

Computer Vision Syndrome

Many of us interact with computer screens for hours at a time for work, school, research, or entertainment, which can put a strain on our eyes. 

Eye issues caused by computer use are called computer vision syndrome or CVS. This includes a range of eye discomfort and strain issues. Between 50 and 90 percent of people working at a computer screen have experienced computer vision syndrome symptoms. CVS symptoms are caused by the constant need for your eyes to focus and refocus on a digital screen. These requires tremendous effort from your eye muscles. Digital screens also produce glare and high levels of blue light which further strain the eyes.  To make matters worse, we tend to blink less frequently when using a computer, and this adds up to dry eyes and blurry vision.

The following are the most common symptoms of computer vision syndrome:

Blurred vision
Dry, red eyes
Double vision
Eye irritation
Back or neck discomfort
Headache

A few changes to your workspace and routine can improve CVS symptoms and prevent new problems. Take charge of your environment. The best screen position is slightly below eye level, about 20 to 28-inches away from your face. Consider placing a stand next to your computer for printed materials. Reduce the glare on the screen, especially window glare, and consider a glare filter for your screen. Ideal light sources give even illumination over your work area. Try adjusting the contrast, brightness, and the size of the font on your screen to fit your needs.

Healthy hint: Follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20-feet away, for about 20 seconds.

An Optometrist Can Help Your CVS Symptoms

By having regular eye exams with your optometrist, you can discuss any eye issues you're having and check if you might benefit from a pair of glasses that might help you with computer work, such as single, bifocal, or tinted lenses to filter out glare or blue light.

At Dr. Landrio & Associates, we are here to help you and your family with all of your vision care needs in the Merrick, New York, and the surrounding areas. Visit drlandrio.com to learn more, or call us at 516-546-4800 to schedule an appointment today!