Computer Vision Syndrome

Computer Vision Syndrome, or CVS, is characterized by tired and sore eyes, headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and general body fatigue. It is the number 1 complaint in the workplace and effects everyone who works on a computer.

CVS is brought on by the way your computer screen works. An image on the screen is made up of thousands of tiny colored squares called pixels. These pixels are constantly changing in color and brightness which causes you eyes to refocus. This constant refocusing is what causes the symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome.

The only surefire method to prevent CVS is to wear specially prescribed computer glasses. These can range from specialized multi-focal lenses, to single focal lenses used specifically while at the computer. However, you can also combat the effects of CVS simply by properly setting up you workspace.

Place your computer screen approximately 20 to 40 inches away from your eyes, directly in front of you and position it so that there is little to no glare on the screen. Make sure that the screen height is set up properly so that it can be viewed without looking down or slouching in your chair. Finally, a desk lamp may be used to provide more light without increasing glare.

While proper arrangement of you workspace will help reduce the affects of CVS, you should consult your eyecare provider to fully prevent CVS.