Computer Vision

You may love your computer and its immediate, global connection to the outside world. But like all good things, extended time spent on your PC, tablet, or laptop has its disadvantages. A big one concerns your vision. Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), or digital eye strain, is a very real disorder. It comes with an unpleasant range of symptoms that may include headache, eye fatigue, blurry vision, and unusually dry eyes. If you suspect your eyes may suffer from the time you spend in front of your screen, schedule an appointment with your family eye doctor in Indian Trail, NC, today.

Common Causes of Computer Vision Syndrome

Essentially, CVS is caused by spending a lot of time in front of a computer screen. But in simpler terms, the way that you use your computer is actually more to blame.

For example, digital eye strain can be caused by:

• Sitting too close or too far from your screen
• Staring at your screen for long periods of time without looking away
• Poor lighting in the room where you’re using your computer
• Incorrect settings on your computer display
• Poor posture

Many factors can combine to put unnecessary strain on your eyes when you’re using a computer. That’s why it’s important to take frequent breaks and to follow the 20-20-20 rule of thumb. Every 20 minutes, look up from your screen and focus on an object that’s 20 feet away for a total of 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a chance to change focus, or essentially to rest, from the close-up work you’re doing at your desk.

Is Computer Vision Syndrome Serious?

Digital eye strain won’t cause you to lose your vision. However, it can make you pretty uncomfortable. Common symptoms include:

• Dry, red, or itchy eyes
• Blurred vision
• Double vision
• Headache
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Excessive tearing

If you ignore your symptoms and skip that visit to your optometrist, your discomfort may worsen. This is especially true if you have underlying vision problems that require corrective lenses. To keep your condition manageable, limit the amount of uninterrupted time you spend in front of your computer, and schedule an appointment with a vision care specialist as soon as possible.

How Does My Eye Doctor Treat Digital Eye Strain?

There’s a lot your eye professional can do to help prevent some of the more uncomfortable symptoms of digital eye strain. This includes prescribing lubricating eye drops, updating your prescription for corrective lenses, and treating any allergies that may be causing eye discomfort. But there’s a lot you can do, too. To prevent worsening symptoms of computer vision syndrome in Indian Trail, NC, ask your friendly eye professional at Premier Family Eye Care for recommendations.