Eyes burning? These are the facts about Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)

Computer vision syndrome affects many people who spend long periods of time in front of a monitor. Symptoms include burning eyes, headaches and other problems.

The problem is international. “Computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain, is a group of eye and vision problems caused by prolonged use of computers, tablets, e-readers and cell phones,” according to the American Optometric Association.

In this article, you'll learn what symptoms are associated with CVS and how to relieve it. We need to talk about the right glasses.

How many people are affected?

The numbers are worryingly high.

“Studies show that one in two people who frequently use computers and smartphones have CVS,” said Wolf Lagreze of the German Ophthalmological Society (DOG)Head of the Department of Neuro-Ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Treatment at the Eye Clinic of the University of Freiburg.

What are the typical symptoms?

The main symptoms of CVS include headaches and burning sensation in the eyes, which are caused by chronic poor posture and eye inflammation.

The American Optometric Association lists the following main symptoms of CVS:

In the United States, it is estimated that the average employee spends approximately seven hours a day in front of a screen.

Why do health problems occur?

Experts at the German Association of Ophthalmologists say part of the problem lies in computer technology itself.

“We use the mouse to control the cursor on the computer,” explains ophthalmologist Wolf Lagreze. “To allow us to coordinate our movements well, the frequency of blinking unconsciously decreases.”

The result: When you blink, your eyes are no longer fully moistened by tears, the tear film becomes unstable, and your eyes begin to burn. “Over time, sometimes it becomes a headache,” LaGrez said.

What role does visual impairment and glasses play?

Progressive lenses can also be a problem. When people approaching 50 years old find that they have a headache in front of the computer, the first thing they think of is presbyopia. Presbyopia makes people unable to see close objects clearly, leading to fatigue and a sense of pressure on the head.

Progressive lenses with close-up lenses can also help prevent presbyopia, but they can also cause headaches. “We then sit as if frozen, no longer moving our head and spine, in order to capture the best clarity on the screen with progressive lenses,” the expert explains.

This can lead to poor posture, which can lead to headaches. “The solution is to make additional computer glasses, such as single-focus glasses with a viewing distance of about 80 centimeters,” said the expert.

In general, refractive errors are a common cause of eye-related headaches, and “if myopia or hyperopia is not recognized or corrected, our eyes will tire,” the expert explains. “In response, I get headaches at night.”

This also applies if the strength of the glasses or contact lenses is not suitable or if there is a “hidden” strabismuswhich is compensated by increased eye muscle work. “We use vision tests and eye exams to find the cause and properly adjust the vision aids,” LaGrez said. Then the headache usually goes away.

What tips are helpful in everyday computer life?

German ophthalmologist Wolf Lagreze recommends taking frequent breaks in front of the computer, looking into the distance every few minutes, blinking consciously, or even closing your eyes for a few seconds.

The American Optometric Association provides the following advice on CVS issues:

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