The Covid 19 pandemic, has completely changed our lives, and we will have to learn to get used to the new normal. The Work-from-home (WFH) schedules for working people, online classes across all age groups of children, right from first-time school-goers to college students has led to increasing our screen time including our phones, tabs, or computers and this is due to an online presence for social or professional reasons and physical distancing norms.
However, more and more people from all across the age groups have begun consulting ophthalmologists across the country, with various types of specific and nonspecific eye complaints.
The online working classes, shopping, meetings, medical consultations, etc., have aided in keeping the economy and businesses running, academic sessions not being wasted along with facilities like medical consultations being provided, board room meetings, and decisions are being taken at the national and international level through the online medium and all thanks goes to IT that some sanity has prevailed. But as an excess of anything is not good, the same is the case with our increased online screen presence.
Therefore we need to keep a balance in both, so that both our health, economic and social wellbeing is not impacted adversely.
“Computer vision syndrome, also referred to as Digital Eye Strain, describes a group of the eye- and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader, and cell phone use. Many individuals experience eye discomfort and vision problems when viewing digital screens for extended periods. The level of discomfort appears to increase with the amount of digital screen use,” said Dr. A K Tandon Director Tandon eye hospital Consultant Ophalmologist Nanavati hospital with more than 35 yrs experience in the field.
Viewing a computer or digital screen often makes the eyes work harder. As a result, the unique characteristics and high visual demands of computer and digital screen viewing make many individuals susceptible to the development of vision-related symptoms.
Uncorrected vision problems can increase the severity of computer vision syndrome (CVS) or digital eye strain symptoms.
What are the Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain?
The most common symptoms associated with CVS or digital eyestrain are:
1.Eyestrain.
2.Headaches.
3.Blurred vision.
4.Dry eyes.
- Neck and shoulder pain.
How are these symptoms caused?
1.Poor lighting.
2.Glare on a digital screen.
3.Improper viewing distances.
4.Poor seating posture.
5.Uncorrected vision problems.
6.A combination of these factors.
Treatment
Dr.Tandon said, “To help alleviate digital eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule; take a 20-second break to view something 20 feet away every 20 minutes.”
Consult an ophthalmologist if your symptoms persists. Your doctor may recommend
