Computer Vision

Squinting at computer, tablet, or mobile screens for hours at a time is a normal part of our lives in the 21st century. As a result, eye problems associated with this are also on the rise. Although you may experience minor symptoms initially, they can worsen if not addressed. Even if you have never had eye problems before, you may have noticed computer vision syndrome symptoms such as:

Blurry vision

Eye strain and discomfort

Headaches

Neck and/or shoulder pain

Diagnosis and Treatment of Computer Vision Syndrome

The severity and length of computer vision syndrome symptoms depend on several factors, such as:

How long you stare at the computer

Your posture

Lighting

Glare

The angle of the monitor

Whether you have other diagnosed or undiagnosed vision problems

If you already suffer from astigmatism, farsightedness, presbyopia, aging eyes, and/or diabetic eye problems, your computer vision symptoms may worsen. This can even be the case if you already have prescription contacts or glasses. Most regular eyeglasses and contact lenses are not designed to deflect the problems caused by computer screens.

employee at desk pointing at document in front of patient

Come See Dr. Wilken for Eye Relief

Dr. Wilken will take your symptoms, pre-existing conditions, and potential undiagnosed conditions into account to perform the following eye tests:

Visual Acuity—measures the quality of your current vision.

Refraction—tests the potential lens prescriptions that would optimize your vision.

Focus and Eye Coordination—tests how well your eyes work together and how quickly and accurately your eyes are able to focus on objects and varying distances.

Dr. Wilken will use these measurements to design a computer vision syndrome treatment plan to help relieve your symptoms. If you have otherwise normal eyes and vision, a set of specially-designed glasses used during the time you are working on the computer can be very helpful. Patients who already wear contacts or glasses can access new, more computer-friendly prescriptions.

Ways to Cut Down on Computer Eye Strain Problems

Computer Setup

Adjust your monitor so that it is about 15-20 degrees lower than your eye level when seated between 20-28 inches away from the screen. Reference materials can be placed on a document holder between the monitor and keyboard or to the side, but positioned for as little head movement as possible. Investing in an anti-glare screen for your monitor can help reduce glare from surrounding lights. Be sure to sit and work with proper posture.

Adjust Lighting

If possible, reposition any lighting (or your computer) to minimize glare and use natural lighting whenever possible.

Eye Rest and Blinking Breaks

Every 20 minutes during your work, look away toward a distant point for 20 seconds to refocus your eyes. Giving your eyes a 15-minute break after each 2-hour computer session can do wonders. And be sure to blink more frequently to keep your eyes moist.