In today's digital era, we find ourselves spending a significant amount of time in front of screens. Be it for work, studies, or leisure, the screen has become an integral part of our lives. However, this increased screen time is leading to a common and concerning condition known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome.
 

What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a condition resulting from focusing the eyes on a computer or other display device for uninterrupted periods. It incorporates a whole range of eye strain and discomfort experienced by computer users.
 

CVS doesn't just relate to computer screens but encompasses all digital screens including smartphones, tablets, and e-readers. The eyes may strain even more when they're not properly aligned with the screen, when the contrast is low, or when exposed to glare or reflection.
 

The concern is that CVS is becoming increasingly prevalent as digital device usage rises. The good news though, is that CVS is not usually serious. While it can be uncomfortable, most symptoms are temporary and will decline after stopping the digital activity. However, some individuals may experience continued reduced visual abilities, such as blurred distance vision, even after ceasing work at a screen.
 

Causes and Symptoms of Screen Fatigue

The causes of screen fatigue are multifactorial, but the primary culprit is prolonged digital screen use. When we use digital screens, our blink rate decreases significantly, leading to dry and irritated eyes. Furthermore, screens often have glare or reflections that cause our eyes to work harder to focus, leading to eye strain.
 

The symptoms of screen fatigue or CVS can be diverse. They may include headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, neck and shoulder pain, eye strain, and difficulty focusing. It's also common to experience increased sensitivity to light, discomfort in the eyes, and a feeling of grittiness or "foreign body" in the eye.
 

These symptoms can be exacerbated by poor lighting, screen glare, improper viewing distances, poor seating posture, uncorrected vision problems, and a combination of these factors. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step toward addressing the issue of screen fatigue.
 

Practical Solutions for Healthier Eyes

There are several practical solutions to combat screen fatigue and promote healthier eyes. Firstly, ensure that you're sitting at an appropriate distance from your screen. The screen should be about an arm's length away, and the top of the screen should be at or slightly below eye level.
 

Next, adjust your screen settings. Increase the contrast and decrease the brightness to a comfortable level. Use a matte screen filter to reduce glare if necessary. And remember to clean your screen regularly to remove dust, which can reduce clarity.
 

Additionally, practice the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This gives your eyes a much-needed break and reduces the symptoms of screen fatigue.

Lastly, don't forget about your glasses. If you wear glasses, make sure they are suitable for screen use. Consider an anti-reflective coating for your glasses, which reduces glare from screens.
 

Regular eye check-ups are also crucial. Many of us ignore these routine check-ups, but they are key to catching any potential problems early. An optometrist can also provide personalized advice on how to reduce screen fatigue based on your eye health and lifestyle.
 

Embrace a Healthier Digital Lifestyle

Embrace a healthier digital lifestyle. Adjust your workstation, take regular breaks, maintain good posture, have regular eye check-ups, and remember the 20-20-20 rule. With these strategies, we can tackle digital eye strain and promote healthier eyes.
 

To learn more about digital eye strain and tips for healthier eyes, visit Today’s Vision Bulverde at our office in San Antonio, Texas. Call (210) 307-4749 to schedule an appointment today.