About 60 million people worldwide have computer vision syndrome today. This group of irritating eye symptoms can disrupt your ability to function and enjoy life, but at Dr. Bozner’s Vision Lab Optometry & Dry Eye Treatment Center, dedicated optometrist Richard Bozner, OD, is a computer vision expert who can help. Call the Riverside, California, office or arrange your appointment using the online booking feature today.

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What is computer vision syndrome?

Computer vision syndrome refers to a group of symptoms occurring in people who have a lot of “screen time” — the time spent staring at a computer screen or handheld device like a phone or tablet daily.

Spending a lot of time peering fixedly at digital screens can negatively affect your eyes and other parts of your body, like your neck and shoulders. Because computers and other digital devices are now part of daily life, computer vision syndrome is on the rise.

I have dry eyes. Is it computer vision syndrome?

Dry eyes are one of the main signs of computer vision syndrome. Some of the additional symptoms that may indicate computer vision syndrome are:

  • Tired-feeling eyes
  • Itchy eyes
  • Red eyes
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Headaches
  • Neck pain
  • Shoulder pain

Unfortunately, computer vision syndrome symptoms tend to intensify over time. But the good news is that it’s a treatable problem at Vision Lab Optometry & Dry Eye Treatment Center.

How is computer vision syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis of computer vision syndrome involves a careful lifestyle evaluation and a comprehensive eye exam. The team will ask you about:

  • How much daily screen time you have
  • The lighting in your work area
  • The distance between your computer and eyes
  • How often you take breaks from the screen
  • Your posture when working

Your comprehensive eye exam checks for eye diseases or other problems that could be causing your symptoms. You may need a tear film test or other types of tests to evaluate your dry eyes.

How is computer vision syndrome treated?

Computer vision syndrome treatment starts with recognizing bad habits and making some simple changes. The team may recommend minor adjustments to the position of your computer, lighting setup, and posture while working.

It’s also important to make yourself take “eye breaks.” The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to refocus your vision on something 20 feet away.

You may need to update your eyeglasses or contact lenses prescription. If you have chronic dry eyes, you might benefit from an in-office procedure like BlephEx®, OptiLight IPL®, Tyrvaya®, and MiBo Thermoflo.

With treatment, you can quickly overcome the irritating issues of computer vision syndrome. Dr. Bozner’s Vision Lab Optometry & Dry Eye Treatment Center offers solutions in their Riverside office, so call the office or book your appointment online now.