In today’s digital age, computers, tablets, and other digital devices are consistently used for work, school, and play. Although computers offer many benefits, there are also drawbacks, as extensive computer use can lead to digital eyestrain, also known as computer vision. Computer vision can cause eye redness, itchiness, and irritation that can impair the quality of your sight. At Primary Eyecare & Optical of Meridian, we can help diagnose this condition and recommend ways to minimize its symptoms so you can continue to enjoy optimal sight.
About Computer Vision Syndrome
Computer vision syndrome stems from the overuse of computers and other digital devices. Anyone who frequently uses a computer is prone to this condition. Although these symptoms aren't permanent and eventually subside after you've been away from your computer for a while, they can disrupt your life, interfere with your work, and make it more difficult to complete daily tasks. Computer vision can cause such symptoms as:
• Blurred or double vision
• Dry, itchy eyes
• Watery eyes
• Eye strain
• Headaches
• Eye soreness and irritation
A visit to your optometrist can determine if the symptoms you’re experiencing are due to computer vision or some other eye condition. Your eye doctor will conduct eye health and visual exams to determine the cause of your vision problems so that we can recommend treatment to help restore your sight.
Computer Vision Treatment
There are steps you can take to avoid visual problems related to computer vision.
• You can take frequent breaks from computer use during the course of your day to avoid straining your eyes. If you can, get up and walk around during your break to relieve tension in your neck and shoulders and minimize headaches.
• If you can’t leave your computer, look away from the screen every 20 minutes or so to focus on something else to reduce strain on your eyes.
• Make sure you have the right lighting in your workplace to avoid glare from your computer screen as this can put a strain on your eyes.
• Make sure your computer screen is at the right level and distance to avoid straining your neck, shoulders, and eyes.
In addition to limiting computer use, we recommend seeing your eye doctor annually for an eye exam to see if you have visual problems that can contribute to computer vision symptoms. Depending on the state of your vision, your Meridian optometrist may recommend using special eyewear for computer use or glasses that have blue light lenses to reduce blue light emissions that can negatively impact your sight.
See Our Optometrists in Meridian, MS
To schedule a consultation for a diagnosis of computer vision syndrome, contact Primary Eyecare & Optical of Meridian at 601-485-2020.