Computer Vision Syndrome
What is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)?
This is an umbrella term describing various symptoms of discomfort caused by using computers, also known as Digital Eye Strain. According to the European Eye Fatigue 2016 report, around 80% of millennials experience symptoms of CVS. It is something that affects adults and children alike with increased use of screens.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms are commonly felt by those using a computer for more than 2 hours a day. They include headaches, burning irritable eyes, red eyes, intermittent blurring, fatigued eyes, twitching, double vision and loss of focus. Back and shoulder pain are also common. The College of Optometrists has found lockdown increased the incidence of these symptoms.
What causes these symptoms?
When using a computer, your eyes continually focus and refocus on print of differing size, contrast and distance away. This constantly uses the accommodation system and extra-ocular muscles of the eyes. Text and images made from pixels differ from printed versions. The nature of pixels where light intensity varies within it, provides
a difficult image to focus on for long. Increase in age exacerbates this, as our ability to accommodate decreases. Images relayed to the brain vary greatly as a result causing fatigue. Blinking less will also dry the eyes out.
What can help with CVS?
Adjusting the level of glare from surrounding lighting, workstation set-up, regular breaks and changing computer settings all help. Prescription glasses with specific coatings commonly give clarity and relief of symptoms.
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