Ever have your eyeballs burning at the end of a day spent in front of a screen? You’re not alone. As more and more of our lives become virtual, we’re spending more time planted in front of our life-sucking phones, computers and tablets. “The increase in screen time all the time can create a real problem.
This issue is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), or digital eye strain. This article will provide the details on CVS symptoms. Knowing what to look for can help you take parasol actions to protect your peepers.
Q: What is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)?
CVS goes beyond your eyes being fatigued. It’s a collection of eye and vision problems resulting from too much screen time. The root problem is the way we use digital devices. We tend to blink less. Add to that the blue light developed from displays that can place further pressure.
What Is Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer Vision Syndrome is a collection of eye and vision problems. These issues are linked to prolonged use of computers, tablets, e-readers and cell phones. It’s not one single problem. Many different things that happen when you spend too much time staring at screens.
Risk factors for developing CVS
There are many risk factors for developing CVS. Perhaps the largest question is how much time you spend staring at screens. Bad lighting can exacerbate the problem. You’re at greater risk if you already have uncorrected vision problems. Even the way your desk is arranged can make a difference.
Eye-Related Symptoms of CVS: The Most Common
CVS manifests in different ways, but it often begins with your eyes themselves. 9 common signs related to the eye4. Let’s consider the common signs.
Eye Strain and Fatigue
One common symptom is eye strain. It’s the tired, heavy feeling of your eyes after screens.” It can be mild, or it can be intense. After a long day of staring at a computer screen, it is often worse. How do you know it’s not just being tired? If it’s CVS, it’ll soon get better when you stop looking at screens.
Dry Eyes and Irritation
When you’re looking at a screen, you blink less, simply. It dries out the eyes more quickly. Dry eyes feel scratchy, gritty, or burning. Others feel as if something is lodged in their eye.
Blurred Vision
You’ll risk your eye from looking at the screen for long hours. The blurriness can be up close or a distance away. You could feel challenges reading things that are up close, or you might not be able to see far-away things clearly. This can be transient but episodic.
Physical Demands and Symptoms with CVS
It’s not only your eyes that are suffering. CVS can lead to pain and discomfort in other parts of your body, as well.
Headaches and Migraines
Headaches can be triggered by staring at screens. Eye strain is a frequent headache trigger. Some may develop tension headaches. Some may experience full-blown migraines associated with CVS. If your head aches after working on a computer, CVS may be to blame.
Neck and Shoulder Pain
Do you suffer from slouch over a computer? Lots of people do. This slouch can cause pain in your neck and shoulders. Think of someone sitting at a laptop all day. That’s a recipe for pain. Neck and shoulder pain are probably associated with CVS.
Back Pain
Slouching and sitting for long periods can be a source of back pain also. If you’re not sitting perpendicularly, it places undue stress on your back muscles.” This can result in aches and stiffness, and even chronic back issues.
[READ MORE] Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain
In addition to these more familiar symptoms, CVS can create other, less familiar, visual problems.
Photophobia (Light Sensitivity)
CVS can cause you to be more sensitive to light. Bright lights might hurt your eyes or be bothersome. You may be squinting more than you used to.
Difficulty Focusing
CVS can screw with your ability to pivot quickly. It can be a challenge to shift your gaze from your computer screen to something across the room. Your eyes may take a few seconds to adjust.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Computer Vision Syndrome
So what can you do about CVS? Getting diagnosed and doing something about it is critical.
Diagnosis And Treatment Of Eye Problems With Comprehensive Eye Exams
If you suspect you have CVS, consult an eye doctor. They can exclude other problems and offer tailored advice. Regular eye exam is essential for good sight.
A Practical Guide for Dealing With CVS Symptoms
Here are some tips for reducing CVS symptoms:
Workstation ergonomics: Position monitor at proper heights and distances.
Screen settings: Lower glare and brightness.
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, watch something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Use artificial tears: This helps keep your eyes moist.
Conclusion
Computer Vision Syndrome is a real issue in our digital world. Understanding the symptoms is the first step to keeping your eyes safe. If you see these warning signs, take action. Go to an eye doc and follow those tips. The care you provide for your eyes is an investment in your general health. Don’t ignore it.
