Computer Vision Syndrome, Dry Eye, and Headaches
In today’s world, many people live a life that involves staring at a cell phone and computer screens for extended periods. This often puts a strain on their eyes. Computer vision syndrome (CVS), or digital eye strain, is a collection of eye and vision complications resulting from extended usage of cell phones, e-readers, tablets, and computers, which causes heightened stress to vision. At Apple Valley Eye Center in Yakima, WA, we provide eye care and treatment for computer vision syndrome and other vision complications.
Symptoms of CVS
Some common symptoms of computer vision syndrome might include:
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Eye irritation from an itchy eye, red eye, or dry eye
- Neck and back aches
- Double vision
- Muscle fatigue
If you develop any of these symptoms, it might help for you visit for an eye exam at our optometrist practice.
How Can an Optometrist Address Computer Vision Syndrome
Once you are diagnosed with CVS, an eye doctor on our optometry team might prescribe your eyeglasses or contact lenses as optical aids for reducing the symptoms of computer vision syndrome. If you are wearing eyeglasses, you need to make sure that they always sit on your face properly. Wearing your eyeglasses improperly can amplify your eye strain. On the other hand, if you are wearing contact lenses, it can be important that you maintain proper eye hygiene to prevent complications like dry eye disease.
Preventing and Managing CVS
You may be ablet to prevent or minimize the symptoms of CVS in the following ways:
- Reducing the glare from your computer screen by moving it away from the window, closing the window shades, or requesting your employer to dimmer switches for overhead light fixtures.
- Rearranging your desk to place the computer monitor so you don’t have to strain your neck or eyes.
- Taking regular breaks from your computer screen. It may be recommended that about every 20 minutes, look away from the computer screen for roughly 20 seconds, at an object about 20 feet away.
- Change your monitor settings to adjust the contrast, font size, and settings to help prevent strain.
Get Eye Care from Eye Irritation, Dry Eye, and Headaches from an Optometrist on Our Optometry Team
Welcome to Apple Valley Eye Center in Yakima, WA. We are committed to helping solve your eye and vision complications. Contact us today for more insights on eye and vision care from an optometrist on our optometry team. Call us at (509) 966-8801 for more information.
