Faq - computer vision syndrome

How common is Computer Vision Syndrome?

This problem is very common among computer users. It has been shown that anywhere between 60% – 80% of the people who work on computers have any one of the symptoms of computer vision syndrome.

What causes Computer Vision Syndrome?

Normally a person blinks 15 – 18 times a minute and one of the main functions of blinking is to keep the eye wet and moist. It has been found that people who do work on the computer blink less frequently as low as 4 – 6 times a minute since they constantly stare at the computer monitor for hours together. This puts lot of strain on the eyes and makes the eye dry.

Who else can develop Computer Vision Syndrome?

People working on computers are not the only ones who are vulnerable to computer vision syndrome. Kids who play portable video games, games on mobile phones or who use computers throughout the day either at school or home can experience symptoms related to computer usage.

What are the symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome?

A person may encounter certain symptoms due to prolonged use of computers. The symptoms include

• - Blurred vision
• - Eye pain
• - Discomfort
• - Headache
• - Neck or back pain
• - Eye irritation
• - Dry feeling in the eyes
• - Redness

These symptoms are more prominent in persons working in an air – conditioned room since the humidity is less and evaporation (of tears) is greater.

How do we get relief from Computer Vision Syndrome?

• - A person needs to make simple changes in lifestyle and work environment to minimize symptoms of computer vision syndrome.
• - Rearrange your desk – The optimal position to place the computer is at the level of your eye or slightly below your eye level about 25 inches away from your face. At this position
• - You need not strain or head or neck to see what is on the screen
• - You need not keep your eyes wide open to see the screen increasing the chance of dryness
• - Give break to your eyes – It is said that you have to look 20 feet from your computer screen every twenty minutes and blink consciously for 20 minutes. However, if this is not possible take short breaks from your work and come back and resume working. In this intermittent time, you will start blinking.
• - Change the lighting around you to reduce the glare on the computer screen. It helps to put a glare filter over the screen monitor to protect the eyes.
• - Make sure the air conditioner vent does not blow on to your face when you drive a car.
• - Make sure the air conditioner does not blow directly on to your face when you work in the room. Adjust your table place accordingly.
• - Adjust the brightness, contrast, font size in the computer screen to best suit your vision.

What is the treatment for Computer Vision Syndrome?

If you have any symptoms related to Computer Vision Syndrome, visit your ophthalmologist for an eye examination. The doctor will examine you and

• - Prescribe glasses if needed for your computer eye problems. These glasses may be specially designed to enable working comfortably on the computer like tinted glasses or anti reflection coated glasses which increase contrast sensitivity and filter out glare and reflective light to reduce symptoms of eye strain.
• - Educate you on the life style modifications you need to follow to minimize the symptoms
• - Prescribe certain group of medications called tear substitutes to help you get better.