Computer Vision Syndrome

The computer screen is a common tool used in today’s workplace , home and society interactions. The American Optometry Association reports that in Western cultures, many American workers spend hours looking at computer screens. The Vision Council reported in 2012 that 70% of Americans will experience some eye strain from looking at digital devices annually. School children are also at risk as 60 million kids will use computers or digital devices (not TV’s) for > 1 hr/day. School performance starts with the eyes and it has been estimated that 80% of learning comes visually. Computer eye strain is the first computer related health complaint. Some vision health care experts report that if you are looking at a computer screen or digital device for > 2 hrs per day, you have a 90% chance of developing Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). CVS also affects work performance and the bottom line for companies with a significant workforce that works on computers and digital devices. It is becoming a public health issue as in 2013, over 10 million visits to eye professionals were made for CVS.

Computer Vision Syndrome is usually not permanent but can be very painful and it is very treatable. Typical causes are unsuitable work environments and improper use of eye glasses and contacts. Symptoms are typically associated with “near work” and can include: eye fatigue, dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. Treatments range from limiting exposure, to redesign of work environments (lighting, computer settings), eye drops and proper use and fitting of eye devices.

Tune in to this segment for more information about the causes, symptoms and treatments for Computer Vision Syndrome. Dr. Marc Lay, a local Atlanta optometrist who has completed doctoral research work on this subject, will lend his expertise on this topic affecting so many adults and children. Listeners can also obtain more information on www.georgiaeyephysicians.com.

Dr. Marc Lay