With people using computers more frequently in the workplace, at home, and in the educational setting there has been a corresponding increase in vision related complaints.

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is the general term used to describe the variety of vision related symptoms that may be caused or aggravated by regular use of a computer for two or more hours a day. This is mainly a problem related to near vision stress. The problem is caused by the eyes reacting differently to computer screens then the do to printed letters. Computer Screens create letters out of pixels or dots, which are fuzzy on the edges. Our eyes have trouble keeping the letters clear, constantly refocusing and overworking our eye muscles. This strain on the focusing muscles causes fatigue and an array of symptoms.

Having 20/20 vision is not a guarantee that you will not have the symptoms of acute or chronic disorder, which affects the ocular activity and general health of virtually all computer users.  Contact lens wearers, whose ophthalmic prescription corrects only for distance viewing, may suffer from CVS as well as those with uncorrected vision. According to experts, CVS must be placed in the Categories of cumulative trauma disorder or repetitive strain injury. Everyone who uses a computer is at risk for eyestrain and CVS. If your work or recreation involves prolonged use of computers and you checked two or more of the symptoms listed below, it is recommended that you have a diagnostic test to either confirm or rule out Computer Vision Syndrome.

•·         Tires eyes

•·         Eyestrain

•·         Sore eyes

•·         Red eyes

•·         Burning eyes

•·         Dry eyes

•·         Headaches

•·         Intermittent blurred near vision

•·         Occasional blurred distance

•·         Vision sluggishness in changing the focus of your eyes

•·         Contact lens discomfort

•·         Changes in color perception

•·         Glare sensitivity

•·         Excessive tear production

•·         Neck, shoulder, and back aches or pain

Computer Vision Syndrome, once recognized, is fairly easy to correct. Recently, revolutionary diagnostic equipment has been designed to properly evaluate the computer user who is suffering from the symptoms of CVS. Anyone who suspects CVS, or who works at a computer several hours a day, should have a thorough eye exam that includes a CVS diagnostic test. We will be asking you if you use a computer regularly. If it is determined that you have CVS, specialized glasses can be prescribed specifically for you. These glasses incorporate tints, coatings, and filters to combat glare and other problems associated with computer use.

Dry Eyes & CVS

When using a computer many people have a tendency to blink less frequently and this may lead to dry eyes. The eye has 3 layers of tear film, which coats the surface of the eye. This tear film is very important for the lubrication, protection and comfort of the eye as well as clarity of vision.

Dry eye frequently involves a reduced coverage of the oily layer of tear film, not just general lack of tear production. With inadequate oily tear coverage evaporation occurs too quickly. The corresponding dryness causes the body to produce excessive watery tears and may in fact result in wet eyes and tearing.

Dry eye symptoms include burning, stinging, or a gritty sensation, which may come and go depending on many factors. Itching, tearing and light sensitivity may also occur. Occasionally long strings of mucus can be stretched from a dry eye. Blinking is very important for the maintenance of the tear film. The consistent use of appropriate eye drops can soothe the eyes and give temporary relief.  Other options are available should simple lubricating drops are ineffective.