Computers today have become a way of life. With so much computer use comes the risk of developing digital eye strain, aka computer vision syndrome. These FAQs from Karns Vision Center in Knoxville, TN, address the causes, symptoms, and prevention of this condition.
What is computer vision syndrome?
Computer vision syndrome is eye strain caused by excessive use of computers or other digital devices. Eye strain occurs when you spend hours staring at a digital screen without taking breaks to relax your eyes. Computer vision can cause such symptoms as eye redness and fatigue, headaches, dry eye, and blurred vision.
Is computer vision serious?
Computer vision symptoms are not permanent, but they can lower your quality of life. If you have undetected vision problems, excessive computer use can make them worse. It’s always good to have your eyes checked if you have vision problems as they could be due to refractive errors or undetected eye diseases. Routine optometry care is key to maintaining quality sight.
Who’s at risk for developing computer vision?
If you have a job that requires extensive use of a computer or other digital devices such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, you’re at risk for developing computer vision. Symptoms often subside when you take breaks from your digital screen or take time to rest your eyes. If your symptoms persist or worsen, contact our eye care specialist for a checkup to see if other factors are impacting your sight. At Karns Vision Center, we offer comprehensive eye care services to residents of Knoxville, TN, and beyond.
How can I avoid developing computer vision?
Limiting the use of a computer or other digital devices is one of the best ways to avoid problems with computer vision. If computer use is a must for your job, the following guidelines can help protect your eyes:
- Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen to focus on an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds (the 20-20-20 rule) to give your eyes a break.
- Blink often, as reduced blinking can lead to dry eye.
- Work with proper lighting to avoid straining your eyes.
- Situate your monitor at eye level and at least arm’s distance away.
- Download an app that reduces blue light emissions to protect your eyes.
How can an optometrist help with computer vision?
By scheduling regular eye exams, our optometry specialist can catch and correct vision problems early to avoid straining your eyes. We can also prescribe eyewear conducive to computer work to reduce overexposure to blue light.
See Our Optometrist in Knoxville, TN, for Help with Computer Vision Symptoms
For help with managing computer vision symptoms, contact Karns Vision Center, Knoxville, TN, at (865) 247-7715.