Computer vision syndrome: the essential information

Computers, phones, and screens are practically impossible to avoid on a daily basis in present times. Nearly everything we do requires a screen of a sort, or our preferred ways to relax have now become centered around screens in general. Due to this amount of screen time we face, there are effects happening to our eyes that we may not be aware of or we may not know there is a name for this newer syndrome. In this article, consultant ophthalmic surgeon Mr Saurabh Jain provides the basic and essential information explaining what computer vision syndrome is and how it affects us.

What is computer vision syndrome?

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) describes a group of eye and vision related problems associated with prolonged computer use. CVS affects 75 to 90 per cent of computer users.

How does it affect the eye?

The most common effects of computer vision syndrome include:

• eye strain
• blurred vision
• eye dryness
• ocular redness
• headache
• neck and shoulder pain

What causes CVS?

Established risk factors for CVS are extended periods of computer use (greater than four hours per day), reflections and glare on the computer screen from surrounding lighting, low humidity (<40 per cent), and poor ergonomics with computer use. Ocular symptoms in computer users may be associated with reduced blink rate, uncorrected refractive error, and/or accommodation anomalies.

In addition, blue (short wavelength visible) light emitted from computer screens has been hypothesized to cause eye strain, although this remains contentious given the lack of supporting evidence, the lack of a compelling biological mechanism through which blue light might directly cause eye strain, and the relatively low level of blue light emission from electronic devices

What advice would you give to someone who is having symptoms related to CVS?

A common clinical approach involves recommending an optimal ergonomic setup at the computer, and advising computer users to follow the “20-20-20 rule”, which involves viewing an object 20 feet away for a total of 20 seconds every 20 minutes.

If you feel you may be suffering from computer vision syndrome or would like more information, you can schedule a consultation with Mr Jain on his Top Doctors profile.