Computer Vision Syndrome

If you use a computer, it’s a reason enough for you to read this article. This is the first article of two-part series on Computer Vision Syndrome.

The information is extracted from Dr. Vineet Ratra’s (DNB FRCS) presentation in All India Ophthalmological Conference 2011. Dr. Ratra is Senior Consultant at Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai.

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
“…is the complex of eye and vision problems related to work, which are experienced during or related to computer use. CVS is characterized by visual symptoms which result from interaction with a computer display or its environment. In most cases, symptoms occur because the visual demands of the task exceed the visual abilities of the individual to comfortably perform the task.”

- American Optometric Association

Why are we concerned about CVS?

As many as 90% of people who use computers for more than 2 hr/day experience vision-related symptoms.
Environmental variability at work was associated with eye symptoms which demonstrated a significant impact on quality of life and physical symptoms.
This problem effects productivity by 4 to 19%.

Reasons for CVS

Eye disorder
Workplace (Ergonomics)
Combination

Effects of CVS

Eye Fatigue + Tired Eyes: 64.95%
Eye Strain: 48.83%
Headache: 45.68%
Neck / Shoulder Pain: 44.0%
Irritation Of Eyes: 37.5%
Itching / Burning Of Eyes: 34.38%
Back Pain: 34.38%
Blur: 30.48%
General Fatigue: 25.58%
Tension: 25.16%
Arm / Wrist / Shoulder Pain: 25.0%
Tearing: 14.78%

While it's a serious concern, one has to follow a methodical approach to clinically identify its symptoms, address the external elements like ergonomics and reverse the damage caused by CVS. I shall explain and discuss the same in the following article - Computer Vision Syndrome: Remediation.