Computer Vision Syndrome and Digital Eye Strain: Prevention, Symptoms, and Treatment

Aayush improved his symptoms through a combination of lifestyle changes and guidance from the team at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, where he continues to get his eyes checked regularly.

The onset of digitization has drastically revolutionized the way people operate, communicate, learn and acquire knowledge. In simple words, digitization can be referred to as the process of converting information or analogue signals into a digital format that can be easily understood by electronic devices and computer systems.

When digitization is coupled with advanced and upgraded technology, people gain access to a variety of digital platforms that make life easier and more convenient. In this article, we will bring forward a short anecdote of a 15-year-old Aayush highlighting how he overcame computer vision syndrome by seeking the right treatment at the right time.

In India alone, more than 40 million people use a computer every day, and studies suggest that close to 80% of them experience some form of computer vision syndrome, also called digital eye strain, at some point.

The breakout of the novel coronavirus in March 2020 altered the world in more ways than one. At the start of 2020, more than 4.5 billion were actively using the internet; overall social media users crossed the 3.8 million mark. [1] With the implementation of stringent lockdowns, everyone was forced to stay indoors, automatically increasing a person’s average screentime, especially in the case of children and teenagers.

We met Aayush at the beginning of 2021, he was accompanied by his mother, who was constantly fidgeting with her purse, seeming considerably stressed. When we inquired about the problem at hand, Aayush’s mother encouraged him to explain the situation on his own. With a steady voice, he elaborated that for the past 3-4 months, he has been witnessing headaches, eye redness, blurred vision, double vision, eye fatigue, and constant itching in both his eyes.

We scrolled through his medical history and found that he has had a weak vision since he was 3 years old. His mother added that since the implementation of the lockdown, he has been spending a significant amount of time on his tablet. Even though all his symptoms were pointing towards computer eye syndrome, we ran him through some tests to be doubly sure.

In the medical sector, computer eye syndrome can only be diagnosed through an elaborate eye examination test usually taken by a vision specialist. The testing for computer eye syndrome focuses on assessing the patient’s visual functions at different distances. Additionally, it also includes testing for any untreated or undetected vision problems that can contribute to computer eye syndrome.

After running all the required tests, we asked them to wait for the results and visit us again the next morning. Even though there were no unattended issues related to vision, we were confident that Aayush was suffering from computer eye syndrome. After the diagnosis, we could sense that both were getting worked up, so we decided to expand on the medical term to offer them some clarity that would calm them down.

We explained that computer vision syndrome, or digital eye strain as it is also commonly called, could be referred to as a group of vision related problems or eye symptoms resulting from prolonged screen use of devices like tablets, computers, smartphones, e-readers, and digital notepads. Further, we walked them through the available treatments for computer vision syndrome:

It is imperative to keep in mind that treating computer vision syndrome does not necessarily require any specific medical procedure. In fact, if the patient tries to bring healthy changes in their life patterns, a significant amount of relief will be witnessed over a period of time.

• Cut the Glare

It is safe to say that technology is a double-edged sword that is both a boon and a blessing. In order to combat the symptoms of computer vision syndrome, ensure that the lighting in the room is not too straining for the eyes. Recently, both students and working professionals have invested in blue light lenses to reduce eye strain, dry eyes [2], and fatigue.

It is also a good idea to get a dimmer switch installed if the overhead fixtures are at your workplace or study tables. Another option is to buy a lamp with moveable shades that evenly cast light on the desk, protecting your eyes from undue stress and fatigue.

For those who already wear glasses, asking for an anti-reflective coating on the lenses can also make a big difference. It reduces the amount of glare that bounces off both the front and back surface of the lens, which tends to make screen work noticeably more comfortable.

• Take Breaks

In today’s fast-paced world, everyone is busy chasing tight deadlines. In most cases, this often has a direct effect on the health of the person. Therefore, it is imperative to take measures that will ensure your body is not surpassing its normal threshold.

If you are dealing with computer eye syndrome, try to step away from the screen for a few minutes at a time. This gives your eyes a chance to relax and recover, which helps prevent red eyes, headaches, and neck pain.

A simple method that eye specialists often recommend is the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This briefly shifts the focus of the eye from near to distance, giving the eye muscles a short rest. It does not take long, but done consistently through the day, it adds up to a meaningful reduction in strain.

• Rearrange Your Settings

Most people don’t know that the best position to place your monitor is slightly below the eye level, which is usually around 20 to 28 inches away from the face of the user. This way, the person should not have to strain their eyes to see the screen. Although, for this rearrangement, it’s best to try different angles and fix the one that works best for you. 

Increasing the text size slightly so you are not leaning forward to read the screen is another easy adjustment that many people overlook.

One of the most straightforward things a person can do when their eyes feel dry and irritated from screen use is to use lubricating eye drops, also called artificial tears. These are available over the counter at most pharmacies and do not require a prescription for basic use. They help replenish the moisture on the surface of the eye that gets lost when we blink less during screen use.

That said, if the dryness persists or keeps coming back, it is worth having an eye check to rule out an underlying dry eye condition, which can sometimes make computer vision syndrome worse.

• Remember to Blink

This sounds almost too simple, but consciously reminding yourself to blink while working at a screen genuinely helps. Some people also find it useful to do a blinking exercise every hour or so: close your eyes gently, squeeze slightly, open, and repeat about ten times. It sounds basic, but it helps spread the tear film across the eye surface and gives the eyes a brief reset.

A Note on Children and Screen Time

Aayush’s case is not unusual. With online schooling and digital learning becoming a part of everyday life for children across India, more and more young patients are walking into eye clinics with the same set of symptoms. Children tend to be less aware of the discomfort until it becomes quite significant, which is why parents are often the first to notice the signs.

If a child is frequently rubbing their eyes, complaining of headaches after using a tablet or laptop, or seems to be holding the screen very close to their face, an eye check is a good idea. Early detection makes a real difference, as it did for Aayush.

Treat Computer Vision Syndrome with Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital’s Best-in-Class

After bringing some considerable lifestyle changes, Aayush finally overcame most computer vision syndrome symptoms. He tried cultivating a habit of reading which reduces his screentime, paving the way for a healthier way of life.

At Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, we have been revolutionizing healthcare since 1957. Over the years, we have been at the forefront of eye care for over six decades with state-of-the-art ophthalmic technology and infrastructure. Our competent team of doctors offer medical procedures and solutions for various eye-related diseases like glaucoma, cataract, diabetic retinopathy, squint, retinal detachment, and more.

When Should You See an Eye Doctor?

Most cases of computer vision syndrome get better with the lifestyle changes described above. But there are some situations where it is better to get a proper eye check rather than wait it out:

1.     Your symptoms are not improving after a week or two of making changes to your screen habits.
2.     You are experiencing double vision or sudden blurring that does not go away after resting your eyes.
3.     You get frequent headaches that seem linked to screen use.
4.     A child is showing any of the symptoms mentioned in this article.

In any of these cases, an eye examination can rule out other causes and help put together the right plan for relief.

If you would like to know more about what we offer or would like to book an eye check, visit the Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital website or reach out to your nearest centre.