If your job requires extensive use of computers, you’re at risk of developing eye strain and vision problems associated with computer vision syndrome. These FAQs from Mills Eye Care in Mooresville, NC explain more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of this condition.
What is computer vision syndrome?
Computer vision syndrome is a condition caused by staring at a computer or other digital screen for extended periods of time. Blurred vision, dry eye, eye redness, eye strain, headaches, neck strain, and double vision are some of the symptoms associated with this condition.
Who’s at risk for computer vision?
Anyone that uses computers or digital devices excessively can develop computer vision syndrome. Fortunately, many of these symptoms are temporary and will subside by giving yourself a break from your computer. If you have refractive vision errors, however, computer vision symptoms can worsen your condition. An eye exam performed by our Mooresville optometrist can determine if the use of digital devices is affecting your vision.
How can I protect my eyes from computer vision?
Using eyeglasses with anti-glare coating and blue light filter can help protect your eyes from computer vision symptoms. You can also limit the use of computers and other digital devices to minimize your risk of vision problems. If computer use is essential to your work, we recommend you follow these guidelines to protect your eyes:
- Stop every 20 minutes and look at objects 20 feet away for 20 seconds or so to give your eyes a break.
- Blink more often when using your computer to avoid developing dry eye.
- Make sure you have adequate lighting for computer use to avoid eye strain.
- Keep your computer monitor at eye level and at arm’s distance from you.
- Download a blue light reducing program or app to your computer or use a screen modifier to protect your eyes.
- Schedule an annual eye exam with your Mooresville eye doctor to monitor your vision and catch vision problems early on when they’re easier to treat.
How can an optometrist help you manage computer vision symptoms?
By working closely with our eye doctor, you can reduce your risk of eye strain and other vision problems associated with computer vision. We’ll make sure you have the right eyewear to work comfortably on your computer and that your eyes aren’t suffering from too much exposure to blue light. We may also recommend the use of eye drops to keep your eyes moist to avoid dry eye.
See Our Mooresville, NC Eye Doctor for Diagnosis of Computer Vision
To learn more about computer vision or to schedule an eye exam with our Mooresville optometrist, contact Mills Eye Care at (704) 664-9121 today.