Screen Time: 3 Things You Should Know About Computer Vision Syndrome

If you have regular pain behind your eyes after working on a computer for a long period of time, you may be suffering from computer vision syndrome. The following are some things you need to keep in mind if you think you are suffering from this condition:

Causes Of Computer Vision Syndrome

The primary cause of this condition is the prolonged use of a computer screen or mobile device. Viewing any type of screen for a long time causes the eyes to work hard, which can lead to eye exhaustion. The overworking of the eyes is what causes them to ache.

For those with pre-existing vision issues, this condition may come on more quickly than those without any eye problems. If you wear glasses, they are likely not designed specifically for use with screens. Glasses can be made for computer use only, much like for reading or driving. These glasses are made with specific angles and vision distances tailored to your screen use.

Symptoms Of Computer Vision Syndrome

In addition to the aching pain felt behind the eyes, you will notice some additional symptoms. This can include headaches, sore shoulders, eyestrain, and blurred vision. A thorough eye exam will be needed to diagnose the issue and rule out other conditions you could have that mimic the same symptoms.

Your eye exam will begin with providing a history to talk about your overall health and your daily computer use. The doctor will then take visual acuity measurements to determine how much, if any, your vision is affected. They will also look at your eyes to see how they focus and work together. This information will then help the doctor better understand what is causing your eye issues.

Ways To Ease The Symptoms

After you have been diagnosed with computer vision syndrome, there are some ways you can reduce the symptoms you are suffering from. First of all, you will need to take regular breaks from your computer use. You may even need to reduce your screen use as a whole. Your doctor may also prescribe eyeglasses for use when you are on a computer or looking at a screen.

Additionally, you can make changes with how you are viewing your screen. You can change the location of your monitor if you are using a computer. Position it lower so that you are looking down on it. Also, make sure you have good lighting where you work instead of working in a dark room. You may also want to purchase an anti-glare screen for your monitor or mobile device.

Be sure to see your eye doctor regularly to ensure you are not doing serious damage to your vision. Set a time limit on your screen use to avoid this pain altogether.

For eyeglasses, contact a company such as AICO Optical.