The joys of technology have changed the way we do everything from work, study and play. Through the development of more high-tech gadgets from iPhones, iPads, e-books, video games and laptops to desk computers, most people are spending more time staring at a screen. That stare down is causing many to suffer from Computer Vision Syndrome.
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a condition resulting from focusing the eyes on a computer display for uninterrupted periods of time. Viewing a computer screen makes your eyes work harder. Reading something on a computer screen is different than reading a newspaper or magazine. Letters on the computer screen are not as sharply defined. Add the glare and reflections on the screen to the mix, and all these make focusing for long periods of time difficult on your eyes, causing eye fatigue.
When a person is using a device like a computer or phone, they tend to be extremely concentrated on that object. Typically a person blinks 15 times a minute. When staring at a screen, we decrease our blinking to about twice a minute, causing eye problems.
Symptoms can include blurred vision, redness in the eyes, eyestrain, dry eyes, irritated eyes and double vision or trouble refocusing. Keep in mind CVS can be the culprit behind other health issues such as headaches, neck and shoulder pain and also a sense of exhaustion.
According to the American Optometric Association, some important factors in preventing or reducing the symptoms of CVS have to do with the computer and how it is used.
■ Location of computer screen — Most people find it more comfortable to view a computer when the eyes are looking downward. The computer screen should be 15 to 20 degrees below eye level (about 4 or 5 inches) as measured from the center of the screen and 20 to 28 inches from the eyes.
■ Reference materials — These materials should be located above the keyboard and below the monitor. If this is not possible, a document holder can be used beside the monitor. The goal is to position the documents so you do not need to move your head to look from the document to the screen.
■ Lighting — Position the computer screen to avoid glare, particularly from overhead lighting or windows. Use blinds or drapes on windows and replace the light bulbs in desk lamps with bulbs of lower wattage.
■ Anti-glare screens — If there is no way to minimize glare from light sources, consider using a screen glare filter. These filters decrease the amount of light reflected from the screen.
■ Rest breaks — To prevent eyestrain, try to rest your eyes when using the computer for long periods. Rest your eyes for 15 minutes after two hours of continuous computer use. Also, for every 20 minutes of computer viewing, look into the distance for 20 seconds to allow your eyes a chance to refocus.
■ Blinking — To minimize your chances of developing dry eye when using a computer, make an effort to blink frequently. Blinking keeps the front surface of your eye moist.
If you are on a computer or device with a screen for more than two hours a day, you may be at risk for CVS. A person may pass their driver’s eye exam or be a person who does not need glasses and still suffer from CVS. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms, see an eye doctor for an exam and ask about computer glasses. If you already wear glasses, ask about no-glare lenses.
Take care of your eyes and remember to blink.
ROBERT STAPLES, O.D., is an optometrist at Texas Tech Physicians-Eye Clinic and faculty associate at the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center department of ophthalmology.