Nowadays, a lot of work and school requirements are done online. So, even if you want to, it can be difficult – almost impossible – to limit the time you spend in front of a computer. As you may have probably heard many times, prolonged or improper use of the computer can have a negative impact on your eye health. Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), a group of visual or ocular symptoms caused by the use of a computer, is a common result of this.
Computer Vision Syndrome: Basic Facts
Computer and digital screen viewing have high visual demands. They make your eyes work harder, and this makes several individuals susceptible to vision-related symptoms, which are collectively known as CVS.
Unlike a printed page, the letters on a computer or mobile device are not as sharply defined. Furthermore, the contrast of the letters to the background are usually reduced, and glare and reflections are often present on the screen. All of these things can make computer or digital screen viewing difficult for the eyes.
Of course, when your eyes are subjected to such an activity for a prolonged time, it can result in some discomfort or other symptoms that can be described as digital eye strain. Even people who wear eyeglasses or contact lenses can be affected by this because their prescription glasses or lenses may not actually be suitable for the specific viewing distances of their computer screens. Typically, CVS comes with symptoms, such as dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches and neck and shoulder pain.
Digital Eye Strain and Dry Eye
People tend to blink less when they are in front of a computer. This decreased blink rate – coupled with increased tear evaporation – can cause or exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Try to observe computer users. You’ll notice that they gaze straight ahead with eyes fully open, which causes their ocular surface to be highly exposed. This enables greater evaporation of the tear film, thus creating conditions that could lead to or exacerbate dry eye.
Guilford Eye Center is a trusted provider of eye exam services. Our expertise includes family eye care, dry eye and eye diseases. Call us at (336) 292-4516, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Greensboro, NC, and the surrounding areas.