Computer Vision Syndrome

Jan 31, 2022 | General

The average American spends about 7 hours a day on electronic devices. Nearly 70% of those people experience an eye condition called computer vision syndrome (CVS). CVS is a group of eye and vision-related issues resulting from prolonged computer, tablet, or phone use. People who spend 2 or more continuous hours on an electronic device daily are at a higher risk of developing CVS. In this day and age, 83% of Americans spend at least that amount of time on electronics as reported by The Vision Council, many of them suffering from CVS.

What are the symptoms of computer vision syndrome?

Being aware of computer vision syndrome symptoms and getting your yearly eye exam can help prevent serious damage related to digital eye strain. The most common symptoms include:

  • Tired eyes
  • Fluctuating or blurry vision (even blurred driving vision after work)
  • Dry eyes
  • Double vision


Eye strain from CVS can lead to dull headaches, typically around the eyes. In some cases, symptoms can result from uncorrected vision or the inability of the eyes to focus or coordinate together. Even the presence of minor uncorrected vision problems can lead to discomfort and poor work performance.

Diagnosing computer vision syndrome

At The Eye Center in Pembroke Pines, our experts can diagnose computer vision syndrome during a comprehensive eye exam. The first step is to take a very careful history. The history will determine symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, burning, or even itching. Our eye doctor will then test visual acuity to see if you need prescription computer glasses. Lastly, we test the eyes to see how well they focus and work together.

Treatment for computer vision syndrome

Treatment will depend on the results of your eye exam. Sometimes we prescribe computer glasses to use while staring at computer screens. At The Eye Center, we recommend a special coating on the glasses called “Blue Light Filter.” Blue light is a harmful visible light emitted from all electronic devices. Blue light disrupts sleep which in turn can affect work performance. It also can impair memory and lead to poor attention span. Lastly, long-term exposure can result in certain eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration.

Using proper lighting, controlling glare on digital devices, and establishing a proper working distance are other ways to prevent computer-related eyestrain. The preferred distance for computers should be about arm’s length or between 20-28 inches from your eyes to the screen. Bright lighting overhead can reduce eyestrain as well as reducing the glare on your computer with the use of filters or anti-glare glasses.

You may find it helpful to increase the text size of your device to increase contrast and definition. We encourage the 20-20-20 rule: taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes while viewing something at least 20 feet away. Also, remember to keep blinking. Blinking promotes the excretion of special oils that prevent dry eye. Normally we blink about 18 times per minute but that is reduced to half when viewing electronics. Artificial tears or lubricating drops may help in these cases.

If you are experiencing computer-related eyestrain and symptoms, talk about your solutions with your eye doctor. Being aware of computer vision syndrome and receiving a proper evaluation by an eye care specialist is the best type of preventative medicine. Contact us today to schedule an eye exam and learn how to find relief.