By – Dr Madhusmita Behera, Consultant Ophthalmologist, (M.B.B S, M.S), Dept of Cataract and Orbit and Oculoplasty, Rotary Narayana Nethralaya

The computer has almost become an indispensable equipment for all of us, at the office, at school and at our homes. Computer vision syndrome (CVS) includes eye and vision-related problems caused due to prolonged exposure to the screens of both computers and hand held gadgets. The degree of discomfort depends on the amount of time we spend in front of the screen. Working on a computer requires a great deal of eye movement and eye focusing. The constant re-focusing effort stresses the eye muscles, resulting in computer-related vision problems. CVS is presented with asthenopic symptoms of eyes, such as eye strain, irritation, redness, blurred vision, fatigue, headaches, difficulty in changing focus between far and near, burning sensation and tired eyes. Neck, shoulder and backache can also be associated with the way we use our eyes while working on the computer

What could be the possible cause?

· Changing spectacle power

· Improper viewing from distances or angles

· Improper sitting posture

· Decreased blink rate

· Improper lighting/contrast/resolution, glare and reflection from the display screen.

How to prevent CVS?

CVS can be prevented by following proper strategies while using computers/mobiles/i-pads/tablets etc. Here, the most important factor is lighting. The brightness of the computer should be adjusted to the surroundings while intensity should be half of the normal room light when computers are in use. We need to avoid reflection and glare on the display screen. Anti-reflective coating for the computer screen and use of flat display screens is advisable for computer users.

Another cause of CVS is the poor ergonomic setup; the monitor shouldn’t be too high or too low. Proper sitting posture should be maintained. A comfortable chair with support for neck and back will help avoid neck and shoulder pain commonly associated with CVS. One should avoid turning the air conditioning too high or direct draughts to the face. By reducing the time we spend staring at screen, we can prevent adversaries caused by CVS to a great extent.

We can also follow 20/20/20 rule: After working on a computer for 20 minutes we need to look into the distance in excess of 20 feet for at least 20 seconds. It will improve work efficiency and can prevent eye strain. So, it is suggested to take frequent breaks.

Lubricating eye drops or artificial teardrops are usually prescribed to patients with dryness. Patients need to consult an ophthalmologist (eye specialist) before using any eye drops and they should not opt for self-medication. Contact lens users

(especially age more than 40), may need to wear glasses over contact lens while working on a computer. They need to be more careful if they develop acute ocular symptoms like redness and pain. Proper corrective glasses should be prescribed to patients having refractive errors such as myopia, hypermetropia, astigmatism and presbyopia to prevent further deterioration of the ocular symptoms. Patients having a medical history of diabetes mellitus and connective tissue disease affecting their eyes, must consult an ophthalmologist.

In an age of laptops, smart phones and tabs, children too are experiencing symptoms of CVS. Parents and teachers should be aware of problems such as frequent rubbing of the eyes, head turns and other unusual postures, blurred vision or eye fatigue. Every child should undergo a regular comprehensive eye check-up.

Conclusion: Computers have become an integral part of our lifestyle. CVS can have an adverse impact on an individual’s comfort and productivity, irrespective of whether they are working at office, school or home.

In order to maintain a comfortable, healthy and stress-free vision and prevent CVS, a regular eye examination should be undergone; proper computer prescription lenses should be adopted and correct viewing habits should be practised.