Don’t let that double vision get the best of you.
If you’re suffering from eye strain, it could be your computer. Staring at computer screens all day — and various other electronic devices — could result in Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). “It’s actually a multi-symptom condition that’s associated with prolonged computer usage. We’re seeing it more frequently because more people are spending more time on their computers.”
Up to 12 hours a day, according to Dr. Philip Smith, ophthalmologist at Marshfield Clinic Wausau Eye Care Services. People are also reading books electronically, and using social networking on smartphones. Never mind all the TV time.
Dr. Smith says dry eyes from all that screen time could potentially cause long-term effects. “The tears not only lubricate the eye, but they help bring nutrients to the corneal epithelium and also take away waste. So if you’re having dry eyes, some of the corneal epithelium may not be getting the nutrients that are necessary to survive.”
And, he says, that can lead to sensitivity to light, pain, and possibly impaired vision.
Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome include: eyestrain, eye fatigue, dry eyes, watery eyes, blurred vision, double vision, contact lens problems, neck pain, shoulder pain or back pain. Treatment can be individualized based on a patient’s symptoms, including modifying the workspace, taking frequent breaks, using eye drops, and getting an anti-reflective coating on your eyeglasses. (Click here for interesting info on the subject.)
AUDIO: Jackie Johnson report 1:38