CVS is similar to many other repetitive motion type conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Problems can start because our eyes move in a repetitive motion across the screen as we read. Once the issue has begun, continuing the same behavior may worsen symptoms. While non-digital reading uses the same motion, screens add flicker, contrast, glare, and light that all put additional strain on our eyes.
Symptoms of CVS may be accelerated if you should be wearing some type of corrective lens but don’t, which may add strain on your eyes. Aging can also speed up the progress of these issues – around the time that people turn 40, the lenses of the eyes begin to harden due to a disease called presbyopia, which affects your ability to see closer objects.
What Happens If I Have CVS?
There is currently no evidence that CVS causes long-term vision impairment or blindness, although continuing to use a screen may be uncomfortable or reduce your ability to see properly. CVS is not considered a single specific problem, but a group of issues. Some signs of CVS are:
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Blurred vision
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Double vision
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Red or dry eyes
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Headaches
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Neck pain
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Back pain
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Eye Irritation
If you don’t properly treat CVS when these symptoms occur, you may begin to notice a decrease in job performance or overall quality of life.
Treatment Options
Fortunately, CVS can usually be treated with just a few small changes to your viewing habits or your screen settings.
Reduce Glare – It’s essential to reduce the amount of glare that comes off your computer screen since the glare adds additional strain to our eyes. You can reduce the glare by changing the angle of your computer screen so that it doesn’t reflect light back to your eyes. You can also install a dimmer switch and reduce the brightness of the overhead lighting. If you have natural light that enters your office, you can try moving your monitor to a different location or try adjusting the settings of your blinds to reduce or block the light coming in. You can also purchase a glare filter that goes over the top of your screen.
Move Your Desk – Your ideal monitor position is just below your eye level and approximately 20-28 inches in front of your eyes. You shouldn’t have to change your head position or strain your neck to read what is on your screen. If you work with printed materials, put a stand next to your monitor to keep everything at the same height.
Change Your Settings – Simply changing the settings of your screen can significantly reduce your eye strain. You can adjust the brightness, contrast, and font size to make things easier for you to see.
Take Breaks – Doctors recommend using the 20/20/20 rule. This rule simply states that every 20 minutes you should look at an object 20 feet away for twenty seconds. Additionally, if you feel that your eyes are straining, it’s a good idea to get away from your screen for a few minutes.
Update Your Prescription – Reducing the amount of work your eyes must do to see is always a good idea. Making sure that your prescription is accurate helps to reduce that strain. There are also options to include an anti-glare coating on the lenses of your glasses to help reduce the glare that passes through the lens to your eye. You can also use sunglasses that have polarized lenses to help protect your eyes.