West Broward Eyecare Associates
Optometry located in Tamarac, FL
The average American spends up to 12 hours a day looking at computer and television screens, which can have a negative effect on the health of their eyes. The team at West Broward Eyecare Associates in Tamarac, Florida, diagnoses and treats computer vision syndrome, sometimes called digital eyestrain. If you have frequent headaches or eyestrain and spend all your time in front of a computer, call West Broward Eyecare Associates or schedule an exam online today.
Computer Vision Q & A
Computer vision syndrome is a collection of symptoms that stem from prolonged use of computers and other screened devices, including:
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Blurry vision
- Dry eyes
- Neck and shoulder pain
A couple of factors contribute to computer vision syndrome. First, when you’re staring at a screen, your eyes are continually moving and refocusing, but repetitively following the same paths. Screens add glare, flicker, and contrast that further strain your eyes. Also, you blink less when you’re working at a computer.
Your risk of computer vision syndrome increases if you work in an area with poor lighting or if your desk is set up with an improper viewing distance or screen height that triggers poor desk posture. Additionally, if you have uncorrected vision problems, including presbyopia, you’re more likely to have computer vision syndrome symptoms.
How is computer vision syndrome diagnosed?
You should make an appointment at West Broward Eyecare Associates if you work at a computer and have symptoms like headaches, eyestrain, and squinting. During your exam, your optometrist talks to you about your lifestyle, medical history, and overall health. Make sure to mention any symptoms or concerns to your optometrist.
Then, during your exam, your optometrist evaluates your visual acuity and uses refraction tests to identify the correct prescription that will give you crisp, clear vision. Your doctor also tests how well your eyes focus, move, and work together. They also look at the external and internal structures of your eye to look for signs of eye disease that could contribute to your symptoms.
How is computer vision syndrome treated?
The team at West Broward Eyecare Associates provides customized treatments for computer vision syndrome. You might need a special prescription for computer work, apart from what you need for other activities. They can also provide a lens coating that protects your eyes by blocking blue light.
Your doctor might also recommend that you practice the so-called 20/20/20 strategy — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a rest from staring at your screen. You might also find that using artificial tears or lens rewetting drops increases your eye comfort.
Call West Broward Eyecare Associates or make an appointment online today for customized treatment for computer vision syndrome.
