Computer Vision

Computer vision syndrome is also known as digital eye strain. This condition occurs when you spend an excessive amount of time in front of your computer, tablet, or phone. Fortunately, the professionals at Monroe Family Eyecare can help treat the problem.

What Are the Symptoms of Computer Vision?

The symptoms of computer vision can be extremely uncomfortable. They include:

• Frequent headaches
• Eyestrain
• Blurry vision
• Dry eyes
• Pain in the neck and shoulders

Who Is At Risk For Computer Vision Syndrome?

The longer you spend in front of a screen, the higher your chances are of developing computer vision syndrome. There are other factors that can cause this condition and make your symptoms worse. These include:

• Poor lighting while reading
• Having a glare on your screen
• Trying to view the screen from an inadequate distance.
• Poor posture while viewing the screen
• Uncorrected refraction errors

How Is Computer Vision Syndrome Diagnosed?

If you are experiencing the symptoms of computer vision syndrome, your eye doctor can diagnose the condition during your annual eye exam. There are a few ways that this condition can be diagnosed.

• Patient history: To determine if your condition is due to excessive screen time or another health issue, your eye doctor will need to know of any health conditions you currently have and all medications that you are taking. They will also want to know how much time you spend in front of the screen.
• Visual acuity test: Your eye doctor will need to determine if you are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism.
• Refraction: If you have a refractive error that requires glasses or contacts, your eye doctor will want to make sure that your prescription is correct.
• Focusing: Your eye doctor will want to see how well your eyes focus and how well they work together.

How Is Computer Vision Syndrome Treated?

If you are diagnosed with computer vision syndrome, there are a few ways that the condition can be treated.

• New prescription: A new eyeglass or contact lens prescription can help with the symptoms.
• Vision therapy: Vision therapy can train your eyes to focus better and to work better together.

Preventing Computer Vision Syndrome

It is best to prevent computer vision syndrome than worry about treatment options. There are a few ways that you can prevent this condition.

• Take frequent breaks from your screen. After two hours of screen use, take a 15-minute break.
• Proper posture: When sitting in front of the screen, make sure that it is 20 to 28-inches away from your face. Also, keep the screen at eye level, so you do not need to look up or down.
• Special lenses: If you wear glasses, you should consider an antiglare lens and a blue light lens.

Call Monroe Family Eyecare Today!

If you are experiencing the symptoms of computer vision syndrome, schedule an appointment with Monroe Family Eyecare. Our optometrist in Monroe provides family eye care as well as pediatrics. To schedule an appointment, give us a call today.