Signs of Computer Vision Syndrome

As we move deeper into the 21st century, the use of computers on some level for almost every job and for massive amounts of entertainment has resulted in what is known as "computer vision syndrome." As individuals use computers, they may have the screen placed in a position that may cause harm to the eyes. This can result in computer vision syndrome, which is a broad term for several different vision issues.

Dry Eyes

• Although there is no real known cause for dry eyes to occur, according to the American Optometric Association, there are many potential reasons. One of these may be the user staring at the screen attempting to read small print or spending far too much time focused on activities on the computer screen. Dry eyes may also result from spending time in rooms that are too dark or from looking at screens that have a high amount of glare.

Blurred Close Vision

• The American Optometric Association also states that undiagnosed visual problems can be the cause of blurred close vision for individuals who spend a great deal of time looking at computers. Computer vision syndrome often brings out problems with close-up vision which may result in blurred close vision. Concentrating on attempting to see things close-up may also result in double vision.

Photosensitivity

• According to the American Optometric Association, the placement of the workstation can result in the symptom of photosensitivity. Computer vision syndrome is often the result of working at work stations that are not adequately lighted. Working continually in a poorly lighted area, staring at a brightly lit monitor, can result in the eyes having problems adjusting to sunlight or other lighting and make individuals highly sensitive to light.

Headaches

• Another problem that may emerge as part of computer vision syndrome is headaches. This can come from a variety of reasons, according to Dr. Natalio J. Izquierdo and Dr. William Townsend of eMedicine. Headaches can be the result of muscle strain from looking at a computer screen that is placed too high and out of the natural line of sight. Also, individuals who have either undiagnosed eyesight problems or eyesight problems that need to be adjusted with a new prescription can have headaches as a result of looking at a computer screen for long periods of time.

Fatigue

• Fatigue is another sign of computer vision syndrome, according to Izquierdo and Townsend. Looking at a computer screen with untreated vision problems can lead to eye and general fatigue. Also, squinting to see small letters on a computer screen can lead to computer vision syndrome problems. Overall fatigue from working too long at a computer and concentrating without blinking, combined with poor lighting, can result in vision problems.