Computer Vision Syndrome

Computer vision syndrome (CVS or digital eye strain) refers to issues you may have if you use digital devices for several hours without taking a break. Computers, tablets, e-readers and smartphones are all examples of these devices.

Hours of nonstop screen time may lead to irritated eyes, blurry vision and headaches, among other symptoms. Research shows nighttime use of digital devices can affect your sleep.

Computer vision syndrome isn’t a serious medical issue. But its symptoms may be so uncomfortable that they affect your work or daily routine.

Symptoms of computer vision syndrome

Vision issues are the most common symptoms, including:

• Eye irritation
• Blurry vision
• Sensitivity to light

Straining to see computer screens or any digital device screen can cause aches and pain behind your eyes. It can make your neck, shoulders and back feel stiff and sore.

Computer vision syndrome causes

Time spent looking at digital screens causes CVS. While you can have eye strain from reading a printed page, screens add another layer of strain because of factors like:

• Constantly refocusing: Pixels (tiny dots) make the print you see on computer screens or other digital device screens. You don’t realize it, but you’re constantly focusing and refocusing your eyes to see the print. All that movement strains your eyes.
• Screen contrast levels: Your eyes work hard to read letters on your digital screen or monitor. That’s because there’s usually a low contrast level between the letters you see on the screen and the background.
• You blink less: You blink three to seven times a minute when you look at a screen. That’s about a third less often than normal. And you may not close your eyes all the way when you’re focusing on a digital screen. Blinking moistens your eyes. Blinking less dries the surface of your eyes. This is probably the most treatable cause of computer vision syndrome.

Risk factors

The most significant risk factor is time spent using computers and other devices. Two hours of continuous digital screen time daily increases the chance you’ll develop computer vision syndrome. You may have more noticeable symptoms if you have dry eyes or eye conditions that cause blurry vision.

How doctors diagnose CVS

An eye care specialist will do an eye exam. They’ll ask about your eye health, such as whether you know you have an issue like nearsightedness. They may ask if family members have eye diseases or vision issues.

They’ll also ask about your daily routine. For example, they may ask if you’re looking at computer screens or other digital screens for hours at a time for work or recreation. (Looking at you, gamers.)

How is digital eye strain treated?

Treatment typically involves managing dry eyes and correcting any vision issues.

• Managing dry eye: Your provider may suggest you make a conscious effort to blink your eyes more often. Blinking encourages tears that moisten your eyes. They may also recommend using over-the-counter or prescription eye drops.
• Correcting vision issues: Your symptoms may be worse if you have a refractive error. An eye care specialist may recommend glasses or contact lenses.

Changing your workspace and computer use is another way to manage computer vision syndrome. Here are some suggestions:

• Adjust your viewing angle: You’re more comfortable when you look down on your screen. Try placing your display about 4 to 5 inches below eye level.
• Block glare: Light from windows or lamps that reflect on your screen can strain your eyes. Closing curtains, lowering window blinds, avoiding bright overhead lights and using low-wattage light bulbs may help.
• Re-think your workspace: Let ergonomics guide your setup to reduce the chance of eye fatigue or back and neck pain.
• Reduce your screen time: If your circumstances make it possible, try to use digital devices for fewer than four hours per day.
• Take more breaks: Build in a 15-minute break every two hours. Plus, to give your eyes a break from your computer screen, try the 20-20-20 method. Every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for about 20 seconds.
• Adjust your contrast: Screen contrast is the difference between the lightest and darkest parts of things you see on your monitor. Check the display setting on your device. Setting the screen contrast between 60% to 70% may ease eye strain.
• Boost text size: Zoom in if you’re reading screen content in a font that’s not at least size 12. And adjust your settings so you read dark print on a light background.

When should I seek care?

See an eye care specialist once a year, even if you don’t have vision issues. But don’t wait for your regular appointment if you:

• Have new symptoms of computer vision syndrome
• Have symptoms that get worse even if you do things to reduce CVS eye strain

Does computer vision syndrome go away?

It can, especially if you change your routine to reduce your risk. Ask a healthcare provider about managing your risk in the long term if you have a job that requires you to use a computer.