COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME

May 16, 2018

Most people these days use more than one digital device every day, including smartphones, i.Pads, laptop or desktop computer and televisions. The current trend of spending an increasing amount of time on these devices comes at a cost. It is believed that 75% of people are currently suffering from Computer Vision Syndrome, also referred to as “digital eye strain”. This is often the result of the eyes focusing at one distance for an extended amount of time on an electronic monitor. There are a number of symptoms as a result of this extended exposure, including fatigue, blurry vision, headaches, irritated and red eyes, tearing and even neck and shoulder pain.

Eye fatigue is one of the most often-reported symptoms and usually due to the tiny eye muscles being over worked without a break. Another contributing factor is lighting. Lack of natural lighting, poor lighting, blue light and neon lights can all lead to glare and eye strain which will lead to fatigue.

Blurry Vision is another symptom resulting from excessive screen use. Because the eye muscles are often fatigued they are no longer able to focus for as long and therefore lose their flexibility. Sufferers will often find their distance vision is temporarily reduced. Blurry vision can also be the result of dry eyes, which occurs when the surface of the eye becomes compromised – often a result of irregular or incomplete blinking while staring at electronic monitors. An unhealthy corneal surface can lead to other symptoms such as discomfort, irritation and watery eyes. The severity of symptoms seems to be correlated with the amount of time exposed to the digital device.

It is important to have a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist because of the number of vision correction problems and age related problems that can contribute to Computer Vision Syndrome. Problems with eye teaming, focusing, incorrect eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions, can all contribute to symptoms. An undiagnosed eye disease may interfere with the eye’s ability to transmit a clear signal to the brain – many eye diseases will have minor or absent symptoms in their early stages.

Using the proper type of eyeglass lens can make a big difference in whether or not someone is likely to suffer from Computer Vision Syndrome. It is important to be wearing the most up to date prescription but it is equally as important to have the correct type of lens for your specific work needs. Depending on the type of prescription, up to 50% of the performance of a pair of glasses may be due to lens type, proper fitting of the frame and accurate measurements of where your eyes sit relative to the frame. Because most viewing and work done on digital screens require high precision even the smallest uncorrected prescription, eye health concern or measurement error can cause problems.

What can we do to prevent Computer Vision Syndrome? First, do what you can to reduce the total amount of screen time you are exposed to each day. If your work involves a lot of computers, try and do something else after work such as exercising or reading a book. While at your workstation remember the “20-20-20 Rule” – for every 20 minutes of screen time, look up for 20 seconds at something 20 feet away. This will reduce the strain in the eye muscles. It is also important to routinely visit your optometrist to maintain good eye health, corrected vision and monitor for potential age-related vision problems. We also do advanced dry eye testing to determine specific treatments depending on the cause. When it comes to glasses, the vast number of lens options available means it is important to advise your optometrist and optician of your work habits, work conditions and current symptoms. Office lenses and antifatigue lenses with blue light protection are examples of specific lenses that are used to reduce computer vision syndrome.

-Dr. Alanna Adams, O.D.

A little girl wearing glasses and a blue dress.
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Discover Opal's playful and stylish children's eyewear, blending fashion and entertainment with popular licenses that kids love.
A woman wearing glasses and a red sweater is laughing.
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Celebrate ØRGREEN OPTICS’ legacy with the 1415 campaign, a tribute to Copenhagen’s oldest postal code. Discover how the city’s canals and creative energy inspire their unique designs.
A woman wearing glasses and a black pleated top
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Explore Etnia Barcelona’s new eyewear collection, where vibrant colors, bold contrasts, and premium acetates create striking designs. Celebrate individuality with frames that exude confidence and style.
A woman with glasses and a flower in her hair
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Dive into Etnia Barcelona's Underwater campaign, a surreal exploration of the ocean's depths. Discover a mystical AI-created world where vibrant flora, fauna, and mythical beings bring the beauty of the deep sea to life.
A man with a beard wearing maui jim sunglasses
By Rosendo C March 20, 2025
Discover Maui Jim sunglasses at Mountain View Optometry, featuring PolarizedPlus2® lens technology for superior glare protection, enhanced colors, and UV defense. Experience unmatched clarity and eye comfort with premium polarized lenses.
A man wearing sunglasses and a maui jim logo
By Rosendo C March 20, 2025
Maui Jim Sunglasses Spring-Summer 2025
A woman wearing glasses is standing in front of a colorful background.
By Rosendo C March 16, 2025
Thierry Lasry Eyewear Calgary - 2024 Campaign
A close up of a woman wearing glasses.
By Rosendo C March 16, 2025
Thierry Lasry Eyewear Calgary - 2023 Campaign
By Tom Wilk March 7, 2025
As a locally owned business, we deeply appreciate your support. Recent events have prompted us to reflect on how many other Canadian companies are also supported when you visit us for eye care services. This month, we are proud to highlight one of our key “Made in Canada” suppliers – ZEISS Vision. Specializing in precision optics, ZEISS spectacle lenses are designed to improve vision in several ways, including sharper vision at night, better contrast, and more natural colours. When you order a set of new ZEISS lenses from MVO, you support a Canadian company employing 250 dedicated staff who work hard to custom build the glasses you will be wearing for (on average) the next two to three years! Thank you for your commitment to keeping your business in Canada!
A man is holding a pair of glasses in his hand and rubbing his eyes.
By Tom Wilk March 5, 2025
Visual snow syndrome (VSS) is a condition that causes people to see visual disturbances similar to static on a television. This "visual snow" can be persistent and is often accompanied by other symptoms that can affect daily life. As more people learn about visual snow syndrome, it becomes essential to understand its symptoms, potential causes, and how to manage it.
Show More
Share by: