What is it?
Digital eye strain, known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a condition that occurs due to prolonged use of digital devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. More common than you’d think, around 50% of those who work on a computer suffer from this to some degree. The syndrome is characterized by a range of visual symptoms that include eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, neck and shoulder pain, and fatigue. When using digital devices for prolonged periods, choosing the right eyeglasses is imperative.
The human eye is designed to focus on objects that are farther away, but when we use digital devices such as computers, laptops, phones, etc, for an extended period, we tend to blink less frequently, and our eyes work harder to focus on the screen. This leads to a variety of symptoms collectively known as computer vision syndrome.
One of the primary causes is the blue light emitted by digital devices. Blue light is a high-energy light that is emitted by electronic screens and is known to cause damage to the retina. Exposure to blue light at night can also disrupt our circadian rhythm, making it difficult for us to fall asleep.
Another contributing factor to Computer Vision Syndrome is poor ergonomics. When we sit at a desk for long periods, we tend to slouch, hunch forward, and crane our necks, which puts additional stress on our neck and back muscles. Poor ergonomics can also cause eye strain as we tend to hold our screens closer to our faces than we would with a book or newspaper.
The symptoms of CVS can be mild to severe, depending on the individual and the extent of their digital device usage. Some people may experience eye fatigue, while others may have headaches, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain. The good news is that Computer Vision Syndrome is a preventable condition that can be managed with proper habits and lifestyle changes.
Who is most vulnerable to it
Anyone who spends a lot of time in front of a computer, smartphone, or tablet is vulnerable to developing Computer Vision Syndrome. However, some groups are more susceptible than others due to their job or lifestyle. The following are some of the most vulnerable groups:
- Office Workers: People who work in offices spend a significant amount of time in front of a computer screen.
- Students: Students and young people spend a lot of time studying and doing research on their devices.
- Gamers: Gamers spend hours playing video games, which can cause eye strain and fatigue.
- Older Adults: Older adults’ vision tends to degenerate with time, leading to higher susceptibility to vision issues.
- Contact Lens Wearers: People who wear contact lenses may get dry eyes, which can make Computer Vision Syndrome worse.
- People with Pre-Existing Eye Conditions: People with astigmatism, nearsightedness, or farsightedness.
- Kids: Children use digital devices more than ever before, which puts them at a heightened risk.
Ways to Avoid it
Adjust Your Workstation: Your computer screen should be at a comfortable distance from your eyes, about an arm’s length away. The screen should be positioned so that you look down slightly to view it. The top of the screen should be at or slightly below eye level. This will help prevent neck and shoulder strain.
- Lighting: Your workstation should be adequately lit. A balance between the brightness of your screen and the surrounding lighting is important. Avoid bright overhead lights that create glare on your computer screen.
- The 20/20/20 Method: Taking frequent breaks is one of the most important things you can do to prevent CVS. Look away from the screen every 20 minutes or so and focus on an object that’s at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Blink Frequently: Blinking helps to refresh your eyes and prevent dryness. People tend to blink less when they’re staring at a computer screen for a long time, which leads to dry eyes and eye strain.
- Reduce Glare: You can reduce glare by using an anti-glare screen or wearing anti-glare glasses. Also, position your computer screen away from windows and bright lights.
- Adjust Your Screen Settings: Adjust the brightness and contrast of your screen to a comfortable level so that the font size and typeface should be easy to read.
- Get Regular Eye Check-ups: Regular eye check-ups can detect vision problems before they become more serious. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure that your prescription is up-to-date.
Choosing the right reading glasses is always an important decision, and at Designer Eyes, our expertly curated selection of men’s and women’s optical frames has everything you’ll need to maintain healthy vision.
