What Is Computer Vision? A Beginner’s Guide

Studies suggest that more than 70% of computer users experience eye strain or computer vision syndrome. They suffer from symptoms such as headaches, migraines, and fatigue. They also experience vision issues such as blurriness and double vision.

The condition affects children and adults who use digital devices for five hours daily. Prolonged screen time can cause eye irritation or strain. What is computer vision syndrome? Here’s a beginner’s guide.

Understanding Computer Vision Syndrome

Computer vision syndrome (CVS), also known as digital eye strain (DES), includes various eye problems caused by excessive screen time. Prolonged use of computers and other digital devices causes eye strain and other symptoms.

When the eyes follow the same path continuously for hours, it strains the eye muscles as they try to focus. Reduced blinking, poor lighting, and improper posture contribute to CVS. With an increase in digital device use, many doctors are seeing an increase in the number of patients with CVS.

What Causes Computer Vision Syndrome

Using a digital device is more difficult on the eyes than reading a book or printed text. Various factors contribute to CVS, including poor posture, screen glare, poor lighting, and viewing the computer at the wrong angle.

Infrequent blinking when using the computer and uncorrected vision problems contribute to CVS. Failing to take breaks while working and sitting too close to the screen strains the eyes. An eye exam can help to detect underlying eye problems that may be contributing to CVS.

Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome

While CVS does not often cause long-term eye damage, people experience various uncomfortable symptoms such as:

Eye strain.
Dry eyes.
Blurred vision.
Double vision.
Eye fatigue or tiredness.
Migraines.
Red, itchy, or watery eyes.
Headaches.
Neck and shoulder pain.

The severity of symptoms varies depending on factors such as underlying eye problems and the amount of screen time. If you experience any of the symptoms, visit your eye doctor. Failing to resolve the issue can cause symptoms to worsen.

Treating Computer Vision Syndrome

An eye doctor can diagnose CVS during an eye exam. The doctor will assess the symptoms and evaluate the patient’s computer habits when diagnosing the condition. A vision exam will help to assess visual skills such as eye tracking, focusing, and depth perception.

If the doctor detects a functional vision issue, they may recommend vision therapy. An effective vision therapy program can help to alleviate CVS symptoms and improve vision. The doctor may also recommend computer glasses to reduce eye strain and improve comfort.

Ways to Prevent Computer Eye Strain

Making adjustments to your work environment can help to reduce CVS symptoms. Tips to prevent strain include:

Take frequent breaks when working. Follow the 20-20-20 rule.
Improve lighting and adjust your screen position to reduce glare.
Blink frequently when working on the computer.
Use a humidifier to add moisture and prevent eye dryness.
Adjust the screen angle, height, and distance to reduce strain.
Adjust screen settings, including brightness, contrast, and font size.
Ensure your lens prescription is up-to-date.

Schedule regular eye exams to protect your vision and eye health. Your eye doctor can determine if eye strain is due to other factors.

For more on computer vision syndrome, visit Old Saratoga Eyecare. Our office is in Greenwich, New York. Call (518) 692-2040 to book an appointment today.

https://www.optometrists.org/vision-therapy/guide-to-vision-therapy-for-adults/what-is-computer-vision-syndrome/

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/computer-vision-syndrome