Protect Your Eyes From Computer Vision Syndrome

How much of your day is spent looking at a screen? From cell phones, tablets and computers to ATM machines, or at ads on the back of the bathroom stall, there is no doubt that screens are everywhere. And while we might love these modern conveniences, our eyes might not.

Extended screen time can lead to an eye condition called computer vision syndrome, says the specialists in this field. CVS describes a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged screen time. Symptoms include headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes and double vision. CVS occurs when our eyes have to work harder to focus or maintain a clear image when viewing a screen. Contact lens wearers may suffer further because their contact lenses tend to dry out, but even people with perfect vision are affected.

In a world where computer use is a daily necessity for many of us, there are a few things you can do to protect your eyes. Luke Small, a doctor of optometry suggests:

• 20/20/20— Every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds to look at something 20 feet away. It’s the 20-20-20 rule that helps keep CVS at bay.

• Blink— We promise you won’t miss anything. Many people can forget to blink during sustained work in front of a screen or periods of concentration, which dries out your eyes and leads to discomfort.

• Sit back and relax— Keep your screen at arm’s length and at roughly 20 degrees below eye level.

To ensure comfortable and efficient computing, visit a doctor of optometry for a comprehensive eye exam. An optometrist can help identify if you are suffering from CVS, or if your ocular discomfort is the result of a more serious vision or health problem. They can also help determine if specially designed computer specs with new lens technology and protective coatings are right for you.

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