Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), also known as digital eye strain, is a category of vision-related problems resulting from prolonged exposure to blue light from computers, tablets, e-readers, and smartphones.
The light emission characteristics of digital screens force the eyes to work harder to focus. For many people today, viewing screens is a part of daily work as well as daily recreation. The result is a sharp uptick in eye-related issues.
The good news is that proactive eye care can help in several ways. Springfield Opticians of Chadds Ford, Holmes and Springfield, PA, our team is committed to the highest level of care for well-known, new, and developing vision issues.
Symptoms of Computers Vision Syndrome
There is a range of symptoms associated with computer vision syndrome. They include but are not limited to:
- Eyestrain
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Dry eyes
The eyestrain is a direct result of increased difficulty in focusing the eyes. Blurred vision and headaches have a direct connection to eyestrain. Some of the headaches associated with this condition are caused by eye strain. But they also arise from the craning of the neck, poor posture, and the tension associated with stressors common to prolonged computer use. Dry eyes can be caused by nervous impulses making blinking less frequent, but they can also arise from overexposure of the tear ducts to blue computer light.
These and other symptoms can have alternative, related causes, such as:
- Improper lighting
- Screen glare
- Improper viewing distance
- Poor posture
- Other uncorrected vision problems
Diagnosing CVS
Diagnosing CVS can be done through a comprehensive eye exam, including vision testing with an emphasis on the visual requirements of commonly used screens at operational distances.
This comprehensive exam includes a patient history to determine the correlation and causality of current factors. It includes a visual acuity test to determine the potential extent of the damage, as well as other possible vision conditions. A refraction test will be done to screen for potential vision correction options as well as a test of how the eyes move and adjust in a range of circumstances.
Treatment for CVS
A range of effective treatments exists, including the prescription of specially tinted glasses that will protect the eyes from blue computer light. Vision correction may be an option. Also, your optometry specialist may recommend ergonomic changes to your work and recreation spaces, lifestyle habit adjustments, and more.
Address Computer Vision with Our Opticians
To learn more and schedule your initial consultation, get in touch with Springfield Opticians today at 610-543-9275. We have offices in Chadds Ford, Holmes, and Springfield, PA, or find us online.