The long hours you spend each day in front of your computer may be doing more harm than good to your eyes. For one, this habit increases your risk of developing digital eye strain. Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry, your trusted provider of eye care services, answers commonly asked questions about this problem.
Also referred to as computer vision syndrome (CVS), digital eye strain refers to the visual discomfort you experience after using your laptops, smartphones and other digital devices for an extended time. This feeling of eye fatigue is especially heightened if you were holding your gadgets too closely.
Q: What Causes CVS?
While many factors play a role in CVS development, overexposure to blue rays from your digital devices is considered a major culprit. Compared with other types of radiation, blue light releases higher energy frequencies, allowing it to easily enter your eyes. Your expert eye doctor also explains that staring at your monitors may cause you to blink less, reducing the amount of moisture in and drying your eyes. This just aggravates the feeling of tiredness in your eyes.
Q: What Are the Common Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain?
Apart from your fatigue, your eyes may turn red when you have digital eye strain. They may also feel heavy and sore, and may become watery as well to compensate for the lack of lubrication. Some experience having blurry vision, too.
Q: How is CVS Managed?
Using computer eyeglasses can help protect your eyes from harmful effects. It’s also important that you let your eyes blink and rest on a regular basis. Remember the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Get in touch with us today by calling one of our locations, or complete our form to schedule an appointment. We see patients in Alexandria, Crystal City, Clarendon, Falls Church and Reston.
