Digital screen usage has grown exponentially in the modern age, with many people spending seven hours a day or more looking at a computer or phone screen. While these digital devices have several advantages for work or entertainment, they also carry some risks to your eye health. One such risk is computer vision syndrome. H. Arnold Papernick OD, in Mt. Pleasant, PA, is here to tell you about computer vision syndrome and how to manage it.
What Is Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer vision syndrome is a condition that occurs when you use computers or other digital devices for extended periods, causing eye strain. Focusing on digital screens requires more effort from your eyes, and the flickering nature of computer screens can cause your eye muscles to get tired. You are also less likely to blink when using a digital screen, leading to less lubrication in your eyes.
Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome
Excessive digital screen usage can lead to several uncomfortable symptoms that disrupt your daily life and ability to work. Some of the most frequent symptoms of computer vision syndrome include:
• Itchy, red, or dry eyes
• Blurred vision
• Burning sensation in your eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Difficulty keeping your eyes open
• Headaches
• Neck, shoulder, or back pain from poor posture
An eye exam from your optometrist near you can determine the severity of your computer vision syndrome. Depending on your symptoms, your optometrist can recommend several solutions to alleviate your computer vision syndrome.
Computer Vision Solutions
Upon concluding you have computer vision syndrome, our eye doctor may advise you to get blue light-blocking lenses. These lenses filter out blue light from your computer screen to help you see more comfortably when using a computer for work or play. Since blue light can lead to dry eyes and other uncomfortable symptoms, these lenses can significantly reduce your risk of developing computer vision syndrome.
Our eye doctor can also recommend lifestyle and ergonomic adjustments to reduce exposure to blue light. Looking away from your screen every 20 minutes to look at an object 20 feet away for 20 minutes can help limit eye strain and encourage more frequent blinking. Adjusting your screen brightness and keeping the computer at arm’s length and below eye level can prevent computer vision syndrome. Our eye doctor may also recommend over-the-counter eye drops to ease dryness in your eyes.
Protect Your Eyes With Eye Care From Your Optometrist Near You in Mt. Pleasant, PA
Computer vision syndrome can significantly impact your daily life and make work challenging if you do not get proper management, so contact H. Arnold Papernick OD, in Mt. Pleasant, PA, to alleviate your computer vision syndrome today. Call us and schedule an eye exam at (724) 547-5711 to keep your eyes healthy and vision strong.
