COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME

Over 90% of urban Indians use computers regularly, leading to a rise in computer-related eye issues. If you experience headaches, eye strain after prolonged computer use, or trouble focusing on distant objects, you might be dealing with Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).

Computer Vision Syndrome is a significant concern for the millions of Indians who spend extended hours in front of computers daily. Beyond the immediate physical discomfort caused by its symptoms, this condition can potentially lead to long-term vision issues. If you use a computer frequently, taking preventive measures is essential to protect your eyes and overall visual health.

EASY TARGETS FOR COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME

According to statistics from India Today Magazine

• 98% of urban professionals in India experience symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).
• Ophthalmologists treat 16 new patients with CVS-related issues each month.
• Every day, 40 million Indians browse the internet, and 180 million rely on mobile phones.
• 90% of urban Indians spend over 4 hours daily using computers.

SYMPTOMS

Spending over 3 hours in front of a computer can lead to Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), causing

• Headaches
• Neck and body pain
• Difficulty focusing
• Eye redness
• Blurred vision
• Double vision

CAUSES FOR CVS

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) occurs because our eyes and brain respond differently to digital characters compared to printed ones. Unlike printed text, the characters on a screen (made of pixels) lack sharp edges and strong contrast. The color intensity of these digital characters fades at the edges, making it challenging for the eyes to maintain focus. This constant effort to refocus on digital text strains the eyes, often resulting in fatigue, burning, or tiredness.

NEW DEMANDS ON THE EYE:

• Demand 1: Rapid and frequent eye movements between the document, screen, and keyboard cause significant strain on the six muscles that control eye movement.
• Demand 2: Prolonged, close-range focus exerts stress on the ciliary muscles, which are responsible for adjusting the eye's focus, forcing them to work harder than usual.
• Demand 3: A decreased blinking rate leads to dry, itchy, red, and burning eyes.

TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR EYES

• Position your monitor 16-30 inches away from your eyes. Ensure the top of the screen is 10-20 degrees below eye level, and the monitor is 4-8 inches lower than your eyes. Tilt the screen slightly upward, similar to reading a book or magazine.
• Use occupational or computer glasses with anti-reflection coatings to reduce eye strain.
• Place windows and light sources to the side of your monitor to avoid glare.
• Blink frequently—aim for at least 10 times per minute.
• Sit with your feet flat on the ground, and ensure your hips, knees, and arms are at 90-degree angles. Keep your neck within a tilt range of 0-15 degrees for optimal comfort.

TREATMENT

• Ergonomics
• Lubricants