Computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain, is caused by prolonged computer and mobile device use. The average American spends over seven hours a day looking at some type of digital screen, whether it be for work or recreation. Chances are, you’ve experienced all or some of the symptoms of computer vision syndrome. The bothersome condition can be associated with the following symptoms:

• Eye Strain
  
• Eye Pressure
  
• Blurred Vision
  
• Dry Eyes
  
• Headaches
  
• Neck & Shoulder Pain

Most of these symptoms should diminish after you stop using a computer or mobile device; however, you may experience continued visual impairments, such as blurred distance vision, if you do not monitor how much time you spend in front of a digital screen or seek treatment.

How to Help Computer Vision Syndrome

20/20 Optometry recommends trying the 20/20 rule: take a break from staring at your screen every 20 minutes, and ensure your device is at least 20 inches away from your eyes. The closer the screen is positioned to your eyes, the harder they have to work to focus on the text, images, or other displays.

You can also invest in a pair of glasses specifically designed to help protect your eyes from the harsh light of your digital screens. A more cost-efficient option is to simply turn down the brightness of your monitor or mobile device to a comfortable, easy-to-see setting. This can help avoid irritating your eyes as much as possible.

Increasing the size of your screen’s text may help, too. You will not have to squint your eyes to focus or be tempted to move your chair closer to your monitor or hold your phone closer to your face.

Turn to Our Professionals

As always, feel free to get in touch with our friendly and experienced opticians with any questions or concerns you may have about your eyesight and what you can do to avoid computer vision syndrome!