Computer vision syndrome

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a condition resulting from focusing the eyes on a computer or other display device for protracted, uninterrupted periods of time. Some symptoms of CVS include headaches, blurred vision, neck pain, fatigue, eye strain, dry eyes, irritated eyes, double vision, vertigo/dizziness, polyopia, and difficulty refocusing the eyes.

Causes

CVS is caused by our eyes and brain reacting differently to characters on the screen than they do to printed characters. Our eyes have little problem focusing on most printed material, which is characterized by dense black characters with well-defined edges. Healthy eyes can easily maintain focus on the printed page. Characters on a computer screen, however, don't have this contrast or well-defined edges. These characters (pixels) are brightest at the center and diminish in intensity toward their edges. This makes it very difficult for our eyes to maintain focus and remain fixed onto these images.

Symptoms

The symptoms of CVS can vary but some of the most common include:

• Headache
• Blurred Vision
• Neck Pain
• Fatigue
• Eye Strain
• Dry Eyes
• Irritated Eyes
• Double Vision
• Vertigo/Dizziness
• Polyopia
• Difficulty refocusing the eyes

Prevention

Prevention strategies for CVS include taking regular breaks, blinking often, adjusting screen brightness and contrast, making sure the screen is at a comfortable distance, and using proper glasses or contact lenses.

Treatment

Treatment for CVS involves addressing the specific symptoms that the individual is experiencing. This may include taking breaks from looking at the screen, blinking exercises to refresh the ocular surface, altering the workstation and screen setup, and using glasses or contact lenses that are specifically designed for computer work.

See Also

• Eye Strain
• Dry Eyes
• Blurred Vision
• Headache
• Neck Pain

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