How to treat Computer Vision Syndrome?

With the onset of the pandemic and advanced technology, everything went digital. While this was a supposed prediction for the future, the never-ending lockdowns, and economic struggles made it the need of the hour. Digitalization has made things easier for us. Work from home and online classes made way for practical learning methods while spending time in the comfort of your own home. Even with companies returning to normal operations, computer screens still remain an essential part of our daily life.

Among all these great things, the usage of digital screens went high. Majority of our time is now spent on some of the other forms of a digital screen. This is contributing to major eye complications and eyestrain. Prolonged use of screens leads to painful strain on our eyes. This is also known as Computer Vision Syndrome or CVS.

Computer Vision Syndrome is not very uncommon to us. Yet, many are unaware of the risks and computer syndrome treatment. Along with that, there are some precautionary measures that you need to follow.

Let’s start with a brief guide on what it means and its symptoms.

What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

Straining our eyes from excessive hours of digital screens refers to Computer Vision Syndrome. Any symptom or ye complication that arises from extensive usage of computer screens falls under this syndrome. As per a survey, a major part of working professionals witness at least two or more symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome.

Constantly staring at your screens is the major cause of this syndrome. Constant focus and no movement of eyes for hours put immense strain on them. Also, we tend to blink less often during this time period. This makes it worse. Our eyes require rest at regular intervals to function well. Having them constantly focussed with no or less blinking results in them drying out.

You must have felt a sharp pain in your eyes and intense headaches at the end of the day. That’s because the glare of the screen dries out our eyes and tears. With no lubrication from tears, we tend to have blurred vision.

Some other risk factors that can contribute to Computer Vision Syndrome, are as follows:

•  Bad Posture
•  No distance between screen & eye
•  Very sharp or very low lighting
•  Constant Glares
•  No time for eyes to rest
•  Incorrect spectacles recommendation
•  Other eyesight problems

Contrary to popular belief, there is no age bar on getting affected with this. Online classes increased internet usage for many kids. Along with their fun time on tabs, learning from digital screens added to their digital eye strain.

Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome

Computer Eye Syndrome does not refer to a particular condition. Rather, it includes a range of symptoms that refer to any discomfort in our eyes, due to increased screen time. These symptoms include:

•  Blurred or Hazy Vision
•  Frequent Headaches
•  Intense neck, shoulder & back pain
•  Double Vision
•  Dry eyes
•  Irritated red eyes
•  Fatigue & tiredness of eyes

These are some major symptoms that can refer to computer vision syndrome. Do not ignore these symptoms and contact an eye specialist at the earliest.

So, are there any computer eye syndrome treatment options available?

Computer Vision Syndrome Treatment

Since Computer Vision Syndrome is a collection of complications; it may require more than one ways to relieve the strain. Depending upon the symptoms, the doctor will prescribe solutions to manage them.

The treatment options may range from eye drops to making better lifestyle changes.

Here are some ways to manage the symptoms & relieve eye strain:

1. Eye Drops: If you have a dry eye condition, eye drops & medications will be prescribed to increase tear production and lubricate the eye. This can relieve dry and itchy eyes from more irritation.
2. Adjust Brightness: Do not use very bright screens while working for a longer duration. Adjust the brightness as per your comfort level. With that being said, refrain from using screens in very dim mode. It will require more focus and effort from eye muscles to read. As a result, more eye strain.
3. Change Lighting: Use digital screens in a properly lit area. Avoid glares from the window and adjust the curtains to dim them. Use bulbs with lower watts. Dim the lights and adjust them to soothe your eye’s comfort level.
4. Rearrange your device & space: using devices from very near can be harmful. The best position and distance? Keep them a little below eye level and at least 20-28 inches away from the eyes. Rearrange your desk in a way that you don't have any eye or neck strain. Use monitor stands to elevate your devices.
5. 20-20-20 Rule: After every 20 mins, look 20 feet away for about a minimum of 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a break from glaring at the screen.
6. Blink Often: Blinking helps from preventing dry eyes and keeps the eyes moist. Blink more often and take breaks at regular intervals.
7. Stretch & Exercise: Sitting and staring constantly for hours can lead to neck & back pain. Remember to stretch and move at regular intervals from your seat.
8. Get the correct eyeglasses: Using the wrong prescription glasses puts more strain on your eyes and harms them more. Make sure your glasses are frequently changed as per your prescription.
9. Hydrate & Diet: Hydrate more and have a balanced diet. Making better lifestyle choices helps in maintaining a balance in your body. Eat food that helps your eyes heal faster.
10. Reduce Screen Time: This is not just for kids but for everyone. If your work requires more digital commitment, reduce some time from your break screen time. This includes scrolling endlessly after work. Give rest to your eyes. Catch up on non-work-related screen time but limit the time.

If you continue to face eye complications, get them checked for other sight problems. It is important to schedule regular eye checkups to keep yourself in the loop.

Computer Vision Syndrome can be managed if you take action immediately. Making some basic lifestyle changes can go a long way in maintaining better eyesight. Do not ignore any symptoms and treat them with professional expertise.