COMPUTERS AND SMART PHONES OFTEN CAUSE:
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Dry eyes
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Difficulty sleeping (Insomnia)
- Poor comprehension of the content viewed
- Poor recall (memory) of the content viewed
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) describes a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader and cell phone use. Many individuals experience eye discomfort and vision problems when viewing digital screens for extended periods.
HOW IS CVS DIAGNOSED?
A comprehensive eye examination can usually determine the cause of CVS. This exam should include the following components:
- Patient history to determine any symptoms the patient is experiencing and the presence of any general health problems, medications taken, or environmental factors that may be contributing to the symptoms related to computer use.
- Visual acuity measurements to assess the extent to which vision may be affected.
- A refraction to determine the appropriate lens power needed to compensate for any refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism).
- Testing how the eyes focus, move and work together. In order to obtain a clear, single image of what is being viewed, the eyes must effectively change focus, move and work in unison. This testing will look for problems that keep your eyes from focusing effectively or make it difficult to use both eyes together.
HOW IS CVS TREATED?
Once the cause of your CVS is diagnosed, it can be managed with:
- Computer positioning and posture
- Proper lighting
- Glare control
- Dry eye therapy
- Computer glasses to relax focusing and convergence demands
- Vision training exercises to strengthen eye muscles
If you suffer from the symptoms of CVS, we can help you diagnose the cause and recommend an effective treatment.