Computer Vision Syndrome

Overview

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a term that describes eye-related problems and other symptoms caused by prolonged computer use. As our dependence on computers continues to grow, an increasing number of people are seeking medical attention for eyestrain and irritation, along with back, neck, shoulder, and wrist soreness.

There is no scientific evidence that computer screens are harmful to the eyes. However, those who work at computers often experience many frustrating symptoms. These problems are more noticeable with computer tasks than other near work because letters on the screen are formed by tiny dots called pixels, rather than a solid image. This causes the eye to work a bit harder to keep the images in focus.

Signs and Symptoms:

• blurred near vision

• difficulty focusing from close to near and back again

• sore, irritated eyes

• dry eyes

• red eyes

• eye fatigue

• headaches that disappear after a period of rest

• irritation and discomfort while wearing contact lenses

• soreness and pain in the neck, shoulder, and back

Treatment

The three main areas that should be addressed when treating CVS patients are eye-related problems, work environment, and posture.

Eye-related problems

• Make sure your glasses are the correct prescription and designed for working at a computer. Patients who wear bifocals may find themselves keeping their head in an uncomfortable position in order to see the screen. Your ophthalmologist will determine the glasses best suited for your specific needs.

• Blink frequently and instill artificial tears as needed. One of the biggest complaints of patients with CVS is dry, irritated, red eyes. This is common because we tend to blink less when reading.

• Stop periodically and look away from the computer screen. Looking up relaxes the eye's focusing mechanism and reduces eyestrain.

Work environment

• Sit approximately 24" from the monitor. Sitting at the appropriate working distance from the computer screen maximizes the clarity of the text and images.

• Adjust the monitor so the center is slightly below eye level. This keeps the neck in the most natural position and reduces soreness and fatigue.

• Minimize glare on the screen. Arrange the lighting and desk to eliminate glare on the monitor. An anti-reflective screen placed over the monitor is sometimes helpful.

Posture and work habits

• Maintain good posture. Sitting up straight with your feet on the floor can reduce back stress. Use a cushion for the lower back if necessary.

• Keep your wrists straight when typing. Avoid resting your wrists on the keyboard

• Place the mouse and keyboard at the same level, keeping them close to the body. The keyboard level should be at a slightly lower level than the desk.