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Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)

We can all agree that digital devices have become an irreplaceable part of our lives. Laptops and mobile phones are used not only for work and communication but for reading, entertainment, shopping, social media, and even ordering food and groceries! We possibly spend more time looking at digital screens than at people. Long working hours, remote working or work-from-home scenarios have also made digital screens our companions. Many of us are either scrolling through social media, playing games or watching movies even after working hours. Needless to say, our eyes are getting tired. This can cause computer vision syndrome.

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What is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)?

Spending long and uninterrupted hours in front of a screen causes strain to the eyes and further leads to dry eyes, headaches, and blurry or double vision. This condition is called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). 

Although the symptoms of CVS are temporary and may improve with adequate rest or sleep, in some cases, they may persist, especially if underlying issues like dry eyes or refractive errors exist. Individuals who spend two or more continuous hours in front of a digital screen every day are more susceptible to CVS.

If these symptoms are ignored, it could lead to more complex eye problems affecting your productivity and overall quality of life.

Causes of Computer Vision Syndrome

There are several causes that contribute to the occurrence of Computer Vision Syndrome or CVS. Here are some common ones:

  • Ergonomics: Ideally, our workspaces must account for a lot of things to ensure eye comfort. One of the obvious factors is appropriate lighting. Dim or glaring lights, with the exception of the screen, make our eyes work harder to focus. High contrast or glaring screens also affect our vision adversely.

Another factor here is our posture while viewing the screen. The viewing distance and viewing angles determine how hard our eyes have to try to focus. Reading text with smaller font sizes (especially in applications) also imposes a strain on our eyes.

  • Screen time: The amount of time one spends in front of a screen makes them prone to CVS. Two or more hours of uninterrupted viewing makes one more prone to CVS. 
  • Blinking: Blinking, although a seemingly simple reflex, has an important role to play. Each blink spreads a layer of ‘tears’ on the eyes, keeping them moist. This, in turn, helps in realigning vision to the stimuli and improve visual acuity. Staring at the screen without blinking definitely strains the eyes.
  • Dry eyes: Prolonged digital viewing may cause the eyes to become dry. This causes a prickly or stinging feeling or redness in the eyes. Some may already have lesser production of tears and become more prone to CVS.
  • Lifestyle: Poor nutrition, lack of sleep or rest (for eyes), lesser outdoor activity, or eye exercises prevents the eyes from rejuvenating. For individuals who cannot avoid digital screens, it is important to keep these factors in mind. 
  • Avoiding corrective glasses: If one has been prescribed glasses or lenses, not wearing them increases the strain on the eyes and makes them prone to CVS. For prolonged digital use, anti-glare glasses or screen shields also can be used.

Computer Vision Syndrome Symptoms

Eye strain and fatigue

Dry Eye

Dry eyes

Headaches

Neck & Shoulder Pain

Neck and shoulder pain

Double Vision

Difficulty in refocusing the eyes

The symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome are quite common. Our eyes give us clear indications of fatigue and strain. Some obvious symptoms of CVS are:

  • Discomfort in the eye: This could be felt as dryness in the eye, itching, watering, burning, pricking or stinging. 
  • Redness in the eye: It is an indicator of our eyes being strained and needing rest. Rubbing the eyes often makes it worse.
  • Blurry vision: Vision becomes blurred while switching between seeing nearby and distant objects. Sometimes, one may also experience double vision.
  • Light sensitivity: CVS causes the eyes to become more sensitive to bright lights, especially high-contrast light from screens.
  • Headaches: Aches may be experienced as heaviness behind the eyes or a persistent pain around the eyes or temples.
  • Neck and shoulder pain: Poor ergonomics may cause stiffness and pain in the neck and shoulder. Sometimes, one may experience backache as well.
  • Inability to keep eyes open: Tiredness makes it difficult to keep the eyes open or see clearly.  

If these symptoms are ignored, they may lead to more complex eye complications. Also, if you are already suffering from any eye problems, these symptoms could aggravate the condition. One such problem is dry eyes. CVS can make the eyes drier, leading to further complications such as corneal abrasions.

How is Computer Vision Syndrome Diagnosed?

Computer Vision Syndrome is diagnosed with a thorough, detailed history taking, eye examination and some basic tests.

You may be given a questionnaire to fill or questions to answer. Questions will be related to:

  • Personal routine
  • Diet and exercise
  • Nature of your work
  • Screen time
  • Presenting symptoms – frequency and severity
  • Any self-remedies to alleviate these symptoms
  • Medical history
  • Current medications
  • Any hereditary eye problems 

This is followed by a comprehensive eye examination. This may be initially conducted without the use of eye drops to test the eyes’ current ability to focus. 

  • The first check is the visual acuity test. The test measures your ability to see text or symbols at a specific distance with the help of an eye chart. Refraction Test includes evaluating refraction errors through a machine having different lenses. This ascertains the need for corrective glasses or lenses. In certain cases, especially in children or young adults, cycloplegic drops may be used for accurate measurement.
  • Ocular Motility Test checks the strength of the eye muscles and if they are properly aligned and move together in the same direction. 
  • Pupil Exams are done by shining a bright light on the eyes to check if the pupils contract and dilate properly. 
  • Diplopia test may be conducted in specific cases to assess double vision, especially if a patient reports symptoms suggesting binocular vision problems.

All this information put together can ascertain the presence of CVS or strain caused by digital devices.

Computer Vision Syndrome Treatment

Home based care

Drug therapy

intensive pulse trearment 11

Intense Pulsed Light Treatment

The treatment for Computer Vision Syndrome varies depending on the severity of the problem, current lifestyle, and existing eye conditions. The more precise information you give to your doctor, the more effective the treatment will be.

The simplest action that is recommended by doctors is to rest the eyes at regular intervals by blinking or taking quick breaks. This is usually accompanied by diet and nutritional recommendations, healthy sleep cycles and proper posture.

Vision therapy or eye exercises are taught by the doctor to ensure eye health and strengthening. These exercises train the eyes and the brain to work together. They enable eye movement, focus and coordination. 

Eyeglasses or contact lenses are prescribed to correct any refractive errors identified by the eye exam. Advanced lenses suited to meet the needs of digital users are available. In some cases, refractive surgery or the use of implantable contact lenses may also be discussed as part of long-term vision correction.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Computer Vision Syndrome

  • The first and foremost step to prevent Computer Vision Syndrome is to be aware and observant of eye strain and fatigue. Give your eyes adequate rest if they feel tired. Take task breaks through the day between working on the computer and other non-digital tasks. 
  • Remind yourself to refocus. The simple method is 20-20-20. After 20 minutes of looking at screen, shift your gaze to an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
  • Spend enough time outdoors minus the digital screen. Looking at objects in the natural setting helps your eyes focus better.
  • Ensure that your eyes have enough moisture. This is possible through conscious blinking or closing your eyes for a moment. If you have dry eyes, use some prescription tear drops as recommended.
  • If your work demands you to look at digital screens, it will help to get a prescription (usually of a lower power) designed specifically for computer use. This filters out the glare and some of the blue light.   
  • Use anti-glare filters or screen tints on your computer screen to minimise blue light and glare. Glares on the device screen due to sunlight or other light sources can be avoided by adjusting the screen position, using curtains or drapes, and keeping the screens clean from dirt and fingerprints.
  • Ensure a comfortable working space. Some points to be mindful about are:
  1. Use a type of chair to support your back 
  2. Position the screen to ensure a comfortable neck position and visual angle 
  3. Keep the screen at an adequate distance of 20 to 30 inches away from your face
  4. The top of the screen should be slightly below horizontal eye level, preferably 10 to 20 degrees lower.
  5. Keep the glare on the screen to a minimum.
  6. Use features to adjust screen brightness and contrast, increase font size or zoom the page for better readability.
  • Prescription glasses to correct refractive errors may not be effective while viewing a computer screen. It is prudent to ask the doctor for specific prescription glasses to wear while working on a computer.
  • Exercise your eyes regularly. Eye movement exercises help the eyes to realign and gain visual clarity.

Be mindful of the symptoms your eyes may be showing. Go for regular eye check-ups, half-yearly or annually, to identify and prevent any eye problems.  

Why Choose Nethradhama for Computer Vision Syndrome Treatment

  • Nethradhama is the leading hospital for high-quality eye care and treatment of eye problems. The professional and experienced team of doctors and staff are dedicated to providing reliable treatment and comfortable experience to patients of all ages. 

    Nethradhama offers a comprehensive range of eye care services and facilities all under one roof. Services include regular eye examinations, corrective procedures for refractive errors, prescribing medication and surgery for more complex or severe eye disorders.

    State-of-the-art equipment and technology are used to diagnose and treat complex eye disorders. 

    Personalised treatment plans with regular monitoring and follow-up make Nethradhama the best for Computer Vision Syndrome treatment. 

    Some prominent highlights and accolades of Nethradhama are:

    • 30+ years of experience in providing high-quality eyecare services
    • First NABH-accredited eye hospital in India
    • 14 branches in Karnataka
    • Advanced diagnostic and therapeutic equipment and technology
    • 5 lakh+ cataract surgeries
    • 2 lakh+ refractive surgeries
    • 60+ national & international awards for high-quality medical care
    • Highly experienced surgeons with safe and effective treatments
    • A+ rating and positive reviews from patients and peers

Cutting-Edge Tech for
Better Eye Health 

Lipiview

Lipiview

Intense Pulse Light Laser

MS39

MS39

Quality Eye Care You Can Trust 

High Quality Standards

The first NABH accredited hospital in India for maintaining national quality standards. 

State-of-the-Art Technology

Nethradhama Eye Hospital has introduced many state-of-the-art equipment that were firsts both nationally and globally.

Experienced Doctors

One of the lowest surgical complication rates worldwide with the help of highly experienced and skilled doctors   

Efficiency and Experience

Efficient day care procedures with a low turn around time to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. 

Safety and Hygiene

We have implemented comprehensive hygiene and safety protocols to provide a safe and clean environment for everyone. 

Patient-Centric Approach

Our patients always come first, and we strive to provide personalized and compassionate care to each and every patient who walks through our doors.

Don’t let your screens cast shadow on your eye health!

At Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, our goal is to help you achieve optimal visual comfort and prevent the long-term effects of CVS. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our CVS clinic.

FAQs on Computer Vision Syndrome

Yes. Usually, Computer Vision Syndrome symptoms are temporary and go away if the amount of screen time is reduced. But if computer use is unavoidable, the symptoms may recur and can be managed by using prescription glasses, resting the eyes and making sure eyes are moist enough.

Computer Eye Syndrome can be managed by prescription glasses, getting enough rest for the eyes, blinking enough, maintaining a good posture while viewing the screen and ensuring spending enough time outdoors without digital screens.

Regular eye check-ups will help in nipping this problem in the bud.

Anyone who spends prolonged periods of time in front of digital devices is at risk of developing CVS. However, those who work on computers for more than about 4 hours a day are at higher risk.

Blue light glasses are designed to filter out part of the blue light emitted by screens. However, Computer Vision Syndrome has many contributing factors. Posture, viewing angles, and lack of enough rest for the eyes are bigger contributing factors than blue light. Thus, the effectiveness of blue light glasses is limited in preventing CVS. 

Yes. Children are more susceptible to Computer Vision Syndrome. Children use digital screens for watching cartoons, movies or sports, playing games, accessing social media and, in today’s world reading and writing projects and assignments. 

This is true for older children, making them more prone to CVS.

 

No, CVS is not known to cause permanent damage to the eyes. However, if left untreated, it can lead to chronic eye problems.

 

Computer Vision Syndrome lasts for as long as one keeps viewing digital screens for a prolonged time. However, even after screen time reduces, symptoms may persist if underlying conditions such as dry eyes or vision problems are not addressed.

 

There are glasses specifically designed to reduce glare and blue light emitted from digital screens. These glasses control eye strain and increase comfort while viewing screens. Also, they are different from the corrective glasses prescribed for refractive errors.

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