If you work in an office or you own a smartphone, chances are you spend a significant portion of your day with your eyes glued to a screen. Digital eye strain and computer vision syndrome are a couple of terms that describe the negative effects people feel when spending time on the computer or on the phone. How are they different? And what can you do to alleviate the symptoms?

Digital Eye Strain vs. Computer Vision Syndrome

If you’ve ever felt a tired, irritated sensation in your eyes after leaving the office, chances are you’ve experienced computer vision syndrome. CVS describes a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer use. Symptoms range from headaches to blurred vision. If you’ve been sitting on your phone texting or watching youtube videos for a few hours, you may even feel physical eye discomfort which is described as Digital Eye Strain.

Digital eye strain is common, with 31% of Americans reporting experiencing eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, and vision problems. 30% of those people have reported having neck and shoulder pain after two or more hours of screen time, according to a report by the Vision Council.

Prevent and Treat Digital Eye Strain

If you’re reading this on your computer, tablet, or smartphone right now, there are a few things you can do to prevent digital eye strain. First, look at the position of your computer or device. The closer you sit to your computer and the closer you hold your device to your eyes, the more your eyes will have to focus in order to make out the image clearly. Enlarging the font on your screen or computer will allow for your eyes to relax when reading the material.

The best thing you can do for your eyes is to simply give them a break. If you’re addicted to your Facebook account, log out of it and put the phone down. If you’re working and can’t take significant breaks, take a few minutes from your project to stare out of the window or to focus on your cup of coffee. A simple break from your computer or device is proven to alleviate symptoms of digital eye strain.

CALL THE CATONSVILLE EYE GROUP TODAY!

Here at the Catonsville Eye Group, providing the best patient care is out #1 priority. The professionalism of our doctors coupled with our capable and caring staff, state of the art technology, and extensive frame and lens options are what have made Catonsville Eye Group the first choice for families in our community.  We strive to provide the best possible professional care at fair and reasonable prices to our patients in the most courteous way possible!

If you would like to schedule an appointment, order contact lenses, or ask questions about our services at Catonsville Eye Group, please call our office at (410) 747-1221 or email us by clicking this link. We will respond to your request within 24 hours.

We’re located at the heart of the Music City at 611 Frederick Rd., Suite 101. Drop on by, or schedule an appointment today. We’re looking forward to seeing you!