Computer vision syndrome (CVS) occurs when your eyes repeatedly follow the same path – it’s an overuse issue. It’s similar to the discomfort you experience with carpal tunnel syndrome in your wrist that often occurs when you spend hours every day typing on your keyboard. When you’re focused on a digital device for hours on end, your eyes have to focus and refocus constantly as you read and type from line to line. Issues worsen even more as you look down at a book or document then look back up at your screen to type. Symptoms continue to worsen because of computer contrasts, glare, blue light, and flickering. Plus, you should blink around 15 times each minute. This spreads tears evenly, helping to keep your eyes lubricated, which is essential for preventing dryness and irritation. With CVS, though, you’re probably only going to blink about half as much as you should and over time, you can start struggling with chronic dry eye.

Computer vision syndrome and chronic computer eye strain tend to cause specific symptoms that are known for being uncomfortable. Common signs and symptoms of CVS include:

Blurred or double vision

Unexplained headaches

Neck or shoulder pain

Eye strain or discomfort

Dry, red, scratchy eyes

You may experience one or more of these symptoms throughout the day. Even if symptoms seem to be mild and under control, it’s important to see the practitioners at Limberg Eye Surgery early on to prevent further vision problems.

Yes. Blue light, often given off by computers and digital devices, is part of the light spectrum that is particularly damaging to your eyes. The reason blue light is so concerning is due to the wavelengths being shorter and containing more energy. Blue light energy can penetrate all the way back to your retinas at the back of your eyes. While medical experts don’t know how much blue light is safe to be exposed to each day, they do find that frequent exposure to blue light can increase your risk of vision loss due to macular degeneration. One of the best ways to minimize your exposure to blue light is to request blue light blocker glasses at Limberg Eye Surgery.

Treating computer vision syndrome involves having a thorough eye exam at Limberg Eye Surgery. Your dedicated practitioner covers your symptoms and evaluates your eye health and vision. Depending on your specific symptoms, your computer vision syndrome treatment plan could include:

Updating your glasses or contacts prescription

Using lubricating eye drops

Learning to rest and blink every 20 minutes

Blue blocker glasses or occupational lenses

The team also spends time counseling you on changes you can make at home or at the office to minimize further issues. Many CVS sufferers find positioning their monitor slightly below eye level, dimming their screen, and sitting 20-28 inches away from their screen improves symptoms. Once you get started on your computer vision treatment plan at Limberg Eye Surgery​​​​​​​, you won’t have to live with unbearable eye issues any longer. Get treatment for your computer vision issues today. Schedule an evaluation at Limberg Eye Surgery online or over the phone.