10 Tips for Combating Computer Vision Syndrome

Cooper Optometry Blog 10 Tips for Combating Computer Vision Syndrome
10 Tips for Combating Computer Vision Syndrome

Screens are everywhere, whether it’s your work computer, phone, tablet, watch, or TV. Technology keeps you connected and productive but places a heavy burden on your eyes.

You know the feeling: It’s the end of a long day on various screens, and your eyes are dry, red, tired, and blurry. You’re experiencing digital eye strain, or computer vision syndrome (CVS).

At Cooper Optometry, Donna Cooper, OD, and Sarah Chung, OD, treat CVS at their state-of-the-art office in Santa Monica, California. They outline some of the main symptoms of CVS and offer 10 tips to reduce eye strain and keep your eyes healthy in a digital world.

Common CVS symptoms include:

Recent research indicates that approximately 65% of the population reports at least one symptom of CVS. The good news? There are simple, practical ways to protect your vision and feel more comfortable throughout the day. 

Here are 10:

1. Follow the 20/20/20 guideline

Look up from your screen every 20 minutes, notice something 20 feet away, and gaze at it for 20 seconds. That gives your eyes a quick screen break and reduces fatigue.

2. Rethink your blink 

Staring at a screen significantly reduces how often you blink. Blinking keeps your eyes moist and prevents dryness, so aim to blink every few seconds.

3. Distance is your friend

Position your screen about an arm’s length from your face, and arrange the top of the screen slightly below eye level to minimize eye and neck strain.

4. Adjust the lighting to minimize glare

Turn down bright overhead lighting and adjust your screens to avoid reflections. Try anti-glare filters or matte screen protectors.

5. Use eye drops

Eye drops bring fast relief when your eyes get dry. If you work long hours on a screen, keep a bottle close at hand.

6. Optimize your workstation

Set up your workstation to encourage proper posture. Sit up straight and adjust your screen to avoid tilting your head.

7. Check your prescription

The slightest change in your vision can cause eye strain. Stay on top of your prescription with regular visits to our Santa Monica office. Always bring your glasses or contact lenses so your optometrist can compare your previous and current measurements.

8. Cut back on screen time

Look for ways to cut back on your daily screen time, such as setting a timer when you’re scrolling or listening (instead of watching) a YouTube video while cleaning or cooking, 

9. Pay attention to other symptoms

Neck pain, headaches, and sensitivity to light are all telltale symptoms of CVS and warning signs that you’re straining your eyes.

10. Get your eyes checked

Schedule regular eye exams here at Cooper Optometry to stay on top of your eye health, and talk to your eye doctor about blue light glasses or special lenses to help with screen time.

Screens aren’t going away, so you must find a balance to protect your eyes and combat CVS. Try these tips and call to schedule a comprehensive eye appointment, or request one online today.

You Might Also Enjoy...