Digital Eye Strain

Computer Eye Strain: Relief and Prevention

At Smart Vision Optometry, digital eye strain assessments investigate visual symptoms that occur during or after prolonged screen use.

Symptoms may include tired eyes, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, focusing difficulty, headaches, neck strain or reduced visual comfort when using computers, phones or tablets.SVO considers whether screen-related symptoms may be linked to prescription needs, focusing stress, dry eye, binocular vision issues or other visual inefficiencies, then recommends management based on the patient’s work, study and lifestyle demands.

Understanding Computer Eye Strain

Computer eye strain (CES), also known as digital eye strain (DES) or computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a condition resulting from prolonged use of digital devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones. It encompasses a range of symptoms that can affect your vision and overall comfort.

Common Symptoms of Computer Eye Strain

• Eye Fatigue: Feeling of tiredness or heaviness in the eyes.
• Headaches: Frequent headaches, especially after extended screen use.
• Blurred Vision: Difficulty focusing or intermittent blurring of vision.
• Dry Eyes: Irritation and dryness, often caused by reduced blinking.
• Neck and Shoulder Pain: Poor posture while using digital devices can lead to musculoskeletal discomfort.

Computer eye strain is the most common workplace complaint today – and it’s not exclusive to adults. Millions of children and teenagers spend long hours in front of the computer, which can stress their eyes and may affect normal vision development. Failure to correct this problem in younger people has been shown to cause shortsightedness (myopia).

It is important to have a comprehensive assessment of your focusing and eye coordination abilities so preventative measures can be implemented. Depending on the outcome of the exam, your optometrist may prescribe computer eyeglasses to help your eyes focus on the screen more comfortably. Clinical studies have shown that having the correct prescription in computer eyeglasses increases productivity and accuracy.

Effective Solutions for Computer Eye Strain

Comprehensive Eye Examination

Our Smart Vision optometrists conduct thorough eye examinations to identify any underlying issues contributing to computer eye strain. This includes assessing your visual acuity, focusing ability, and eye coordination.

Personalised Eyewear

Customised computer glasses with anti-reflective coatings can significantly reduce glare and improve visual comfort. These lenses are designed to optimise your vision at the specific distance of your digital devices.

Ergonomic Recommendations

We provide guidance on creating an ergonomic workspace to minimise strain. This includes proper screen positioning, lighting adjustments, and regular breaks to rest your eyes.

Blue Light Protection

Exposure to blue light from digital screens can contribute to eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns. Our Smart Vision optometrists recommend blue light blocking lenses to protect your eyes and enhance visual comfort.

Tips to Reduce Computer Eye Strain

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes.
• Blink Frequently: Make a conscious effort to blink more often to keep your eyes moist.
• Adjust Screen Settings: Increase text size and adjust brightness and contrast for optimal comfort.
• Maintain Proper Posture: Ensure your screen is at eye level and maintain an upright posture.

Additionally:

• Monitor your monitor – Set the screen at least 40cm to 50cm from your eyes (an arm’s length away). Adjust the screen so you look at it slightly downward so your eye height is at the level of the toolbar or top of the screen. Adjust brightness and contrast to comfortable levels.
• Get the right light – Keep bright lighting overhead to a minimum. Direct your desk lamp to shine on your desk, not you. Try to keep window light off to the side, rather than in front or behind you and use blinds to cut reflective glare.
• Adjust your posture – For every 2cm forward you lean into your screen there’s 14kg weighing on your neck!
• Talk to one of our Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist about your digital demands so that we can customise a solution to your individual needs.

Digital Eye Strain FAQs

Why Choose Smart Vision Optometry?

• Experienced Professionals: Our optometrists have extensive experience in diagnosing and managing computer eye strain.
• Tailored Solutions: We offer personalised wellness treatment plans based on your specific needs and lifestyle.
• Convenient Locations: Visit us at either our Bondi or Mosman practice for dedicated eye care.

Contact Us

For more information or to book your digital eye strain assessment, please contact our Bondi (02) 9365 5047 or Mosman (02) 9969 1600 practice directly. We are here to assist you with all your vision care needs and ensure you receive the best possible care.