What Is Computer Vision Syndrome? Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

If you’ve ever ended a long day of work or school with tired, dry eyes, a headache, or trouble focusing, you might be dealing with Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). In today’s digital world, where many of us in Florida spend hours on computers, tablets, and phones, CVS is more common than ever. Between blue light exposure, screen glare, poor posture, and reduced blinking, our eyes can become fatigued, irritated, and strained.

What Causes Computer Vision Syndrome?

Unlike reading a book or looking at something at a distance, screens force our eyes to work harder. The blue light emitted from screens, along with glare, poor contrast, and constant shifting between digital and physical content, puts significant strain on the eyes. Some common contributors to CVS include:

•          Extended screen time without breaks

•          Poor lighting or glare from nearby windows or overhead lights

•          Incorrect viewing distance—screens that are too close or too far

•          Uncorrected vision problems, like nearsightedness or astigmatism

•          Blinking less frequently, leading to dry eye symptoms

Recognizing the Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome

If you notice any of these symptoms after a long day at your computer, tablet, or phone, CVS could be to blame:

•          Eye fatigue and discomfort

•          Headaches or migraines

•          Blurry vision or trouble focusing

•          Dry, red, or irritated eyes

•          Neck and shoulder pain (caused by poor posture while using a screen)

The symptoms of CVS can be frustrating and impact your productivity, especially if your job or daily routine requires hours of screen time. But the good news is—there are solutions.

How to Reduce Digital Eye Strain

One of the easiest ways to reduce eye strain is to follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something at least 20 feet away. This small habit gives your eye muscles a chance to relax and prevents prolonged stress from continuous screen use.

Your screen setup also plays a big role in reducing discomfort. Position your screen at arm’s length and slightly below eye level to create a natural, comfortable viewing angle. Additionally, reducing glare by adjusting room lighting or using an anti-glare filter can help minimize eye fatigue caused by reflections and harsh contrast.

Keeping your eyes moist and hydrated is another key factor. Many people blink less often when using digital screens, leading to dryness and irritation. Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently, and drink plenty of water throughout the day to support overall eye health.

Why Comprehensive Eye Exams Matter

Regular eye exams help detect and address issues like nearsightedness, astigmatism, or presbyopia, ensuring you have the right prescription or lens coatings for optimal comfort while using digital devices. By combining the right eyewear with routine eye care, you can protect your vision and keep your eyes feeling their best—even after long hours in front of a screen.

Find Relief from Computer Vision Syndrome

With more people working remotely, attending virtual meetings, and relying on digital devices for daily tasks, screen time has become unavoidable. But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer from eye strain, headaches, or blurry vision. Making small adjustments to your screen habits, using the right eyewear, and staying on top of your eye health can help keep your vision clear and comfortable—even in a screen-heavy world.

If digital screens are taking a toll on your eyes, schedule an eye exam with Brianna Herring, O.D. to find the best solutions for your needs. Visit our office in Deerfield Beach or Plantation, Florida. Please call (786) 891-2020 or (954) 472-2676 to book an appointment today.