Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS): A threat to your eye health

It is not uncommon these days to see kids and adults spend a significant part of their day glued to computer screens. Computers are now an essential component of all spheres of our lives – studies, work, leisure and even family time! In fact, technology has overtaken our lives to the extent that one of the first toys an infant plays with these days is usually a tablet or a smartphone. This increased technology-driven lifestyle can have adverse effects on our eye health.

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) refers to the vision problems that result from prolonged computer use. They are usually caused by a combination of improper seating posture, poor lighting in the room, glare from the computer screen, sitting too close or too far from the screen, and uncorrected eye health disorders.

Some of the common symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome are:

• Eye strain
• Stiff neck and shoulders
• Dry eyes
• Headaches
• Blurred vision

Computer Vision Syndrome can be avoided by taking the following simple corrective measures:

1. Make sure you sit in a comfortable posture and your chair provides comfortable padding for your neck and back. Adjust your computer screen in such a way that your head is at a naturally comfortable angle while working
2. Rest your eyes for 15 minutes after two hours of continuous computer use. Also follow the 20-20-20 rule: after every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away into the distance for 20 seconds. This will give your eyes a chance to refocus.
3. Use lighting that is neither too dim nor too bright. Also use anti-glare screens to minimize the glare from light sources.
4. Make an effort to blink regularly. It will keep your eyes moist and protect your eye health from problems such as dry eyes.