These days working in front of a computer all day or at least using some kind of digital device, is the norm. We live in a world that is driven by technology, so for many people, sitting in front of a computer for 8-hours of the day is the reality. Unfortunately, there are consequences associated with this. If you’re someone in front of a computer all day, you might have already noticed your eyes are tired and weary during the commute home. That’s because you’ve been staring at a glowing screen all day and likely not blinking a lot.
Computer vision syndrome is such a common problem and yet, surprisingly a lot of people haven’t heard of it. So let’s take a look at everything you should know about this condition…
1. What is Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer vision syndrome is any kind of eye problem that is caused by the computer. It’s basically an umbrella term for eye strain that is caused by computer use, however it isn’t really one specific problem. “Instead, it includes a whole range of eye strain and pain,” writes WebMD.
You’ve likely never heard of computer vision syndrome and that’s because it’s a relatively new concept, and Health24 explains that a lot of experts haven’t even agreed whether it’s a serious condition or not. “Computer vision is a new diagnosis, and a relatively trendy one at that,” says Dr. Ivan R. Schwab, a professor of ophthalmology at the University of California, Davis, to Health24. “And the thought that focusing up close at technology will provoke a new set of symptoms different from that experienced during other forms of close-up work and attention has yet to be documented in any kind of scientific literature or study.”
WebMD also points out that between 50 and 90-percent of people who work in front of a computer screen will have some of the associated symptoms. It can also happen to kids who use tablets frequently or for long periods of the day.
