Simple solutions for screen related eye problems

Too much time spent in front of a computer, or any screen for that matter, can lead to a variety of eye problems, including computer vision syndrome. Symptoms appear because the eyes and brain react differently to words on a screen and to printed text.

Visual symptoms associated with the use of screens can be caused by visual disturbances, poor working conditions and individual work habits. If you’re having trouble with your eyes while using a computer or other protected device, explore some of the solutions below.

Eye strain

Eye strain, or asthenopia, can be caused by many different environmental and visual conditions. When you continually focus on a task at hand, such as working at a computer or reading a book, the muscles of the inner eye need to work hard to make the eyes converge (inward movement of both eyes) and work to focus on the near task.

This convergence and this focusing of the solicitation on the muscles can cause:

Blurred vision

Blurry vision is a loss of sharpness of vision and the inability to see fine details. It is sometimes linked to the inability of the eyes to focus regularly on a computer screen for a long period of time.

In addition, vision can be blurry by constantly changing focus, such as looking back and forth between the keyboard and the computer screen. However, if you are approaching the age of 40, blurred vision can be caused by presbyopia, the loss of the eye’s ability to change focus to see nearby objects (often associated with aging). Blurry vision can also be caused by dry eyes.

Dry eyes

Dry eyes result from a lack of moisture in the eyes. Tears replenish moisture in the eye by blinking.

Blinking is one of the fastest reflexes in the body. However, people tend to blink about half as much as normal when working on a computer.

Headache

You can develop a headache after looking at a computer screen for a while. The brightness and contrast of the monitor may produce indirect glare which is harsh on the eyes.

Direct glare – light that shines directly into the eyes, such as overhead lights and window light – can also cause eye strain and headaches.

Double vision

Double vision, or diplopia, is the perception of two images from the same object. And staring at a computer screen for too long can cause this. But if double vision persists, it may indicate a serious neurological problem for which you should see your eye doctor immediately.

Back and neck pain

Since the eyes direct the body, we can sit in awkward positions in front of the computer to compensate for vision problems as they arise. Sagging or sagging can lead to neck and back pain.

Also, if you wear bifocals when you are in front of the computer, you may unknowingly tilt your head in various ways in order to see the screen clearly, resulting in physical pain.

A word from Verywell

Many people seek relief from the unpleasant symptoms associated with too long screen time, including eye strain and irritation. However, any type of visual symptom should be checked by your optometrist or eye doctor to rule out a possible underlying cause.