If you work at a computer for much of the day, you could be at risk for computer vision syndrome (or CVS). Also known as digital eye strain, computer vision syndrome can dry out and irritate your eyes, making it difficult to focus on anything for very long. Good eye care practices can help to combat computer vision, but if your symptoms are interfering with your day-to-day life and ability to work, it may be time to visit an optometry professional. At Urban Optics, we frequently treat computer vision syndrome, and we encourage College Station residents to visit us for help with the condition.
Computer vision syndrome is caused by focusing too intently on a screen for too long a time. Despite its name, computer vision syndrome isn't just caused by computers - any digital device with a screen, including TVs and smartphones, can cause this type of eyestrain. Factors that contribute to the development of computer vision include:
The light emitted by the screen
Any glare on the screen's surface
Your posture as you use the device
How closely you are looking at the device
In this day and age, most people have experienced eyestrain related to using electronic devices. And if you use your devices heavily on a daily basis, whether for your job or simply for entertainment, your risk for computer vision syndrome goes up. The most common symptoms include:
Feelings of dryness or grit in the eyes
Feeling like your eyes are burning or sore
Headaches
Neck pain
Upper back pain
Blurry vision
Computer vision syndrome often goes away by itself if you stop using electronic devices so frequently. Taking breaks every 20 to 30 minutes to stretch and rest your eyes can also help you avoid the most annoying symptoms of CVS. However, not everyone can get away from the computer screen so easily, especially those who use computers to work. If cutting back on computer time isn't an option for you, an optometrist can help by prescribing you special glasses to reduce your eye strain while you work. Your optometrist can also examine your eyes to find out whether you might have another vision condition, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness, which could be making your eye strain worse when you're at the computer.
Our eye care professionals at Urban Optics can help you reduce or avoid the discomfort of computer vision syndrome. If you would like to make an appointment, call our College Station optometry office at (979) 401-0800 today.
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