Screen time is very common in today’s society. It can be due to phone, laptop, or TV usage.
Each and every one of us knows that it is harmful for our eyesight.
What is computer vision syndrome?
The American Optometric Association defines Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) as a collection of ocular and vision disorders resulting from prolonged computer, tablet, and cell phone.
It is also known as digital eye strain,affects 69% of the population, with prevalence influenced by gender, region, and income.
Screen time of more than two hours daily increases the chance of CVS.
According to CDC data
Children aged 8 to 10 average six hours daily on screens, those aged 11 to 14 average nine hours, and teenagers aged 15 to 25 average seven and a half hours, including television use
Symptoms of CVS:
- Extraocular symptoms directly linked to poor posture and the positions adopted during computer-related activities—include sleep disturbance and discomfort or pain in the neck, shoulders, and back
- Ocular surface-related symptoms vision blurring, dryness, headache, eye redness, watering/tearing of the eyes, burning sensation in the eyes, double vision, eye pain, itching, intolerance to light, difficulty in near vision, heaviness in the eyelids, foreign body sensation, excessive blinking, colored halos, vision worsening, eye strain and fatigue, and eye irritation
- Significantly impact psychological well-being, often leading to increased stress and discomfort, which are linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety
- Blue light from digital devices, particularly in the 440-550 nm range, suppresses melatonin production—disrupting circadian rhythms and leading to difficulties in falling asleep and maintaining restful sleep
CVS prevention guideline:
- Regular eye examination considering medical history and environmental condition.
- for optimal positioning, the screen should be 15 to 20 degrees below eye level, with the center of the screen positioned about 4 to 5 inches below eye level and at a distance of 20 to 28 inches from the eyes.
- Avoid glare, particularly from overhead lighting or windows. anti-glare screens or filters is recommended
- Rest eyes for 15 minutes after two hours of continuous computer use. Blinking frequently is recommended to minimize the risk of developing dry eyes
For more detail refer compehensive review article on CVS
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MBH/AB