Hyderabad: Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a condition that develops when a person focuses on a computer or any other digital device for long periods of time, in an uninterrupted manner. However, there are many apps that help prevent the development of CVS by reminding people to take regular breaks while working or browsing the Internet.
Dr Narahari Yamjala, an ophthalmologist, says, “Computer Vision Syndrome is increasingly becoming a cause for concern in the field of ophthalmology because most job profiles involve the use of digital devices. A person’s average blink rate is sixteen times per minute, but this rate falls to six when he or she is focusing on a screen. The cornea dries due to repetitive movement of the eye while reading something on a screen. This is done unintentionally, so if apps can remind users to avert their gaze, they can be useful.”
Medical experts say that that use of devices under poorly-lit ambient conditions can exacerbate the problem. Dr Manoj Mathur, an ophthalmologist, says, “Smartphone usage does not lead to CVS as often as prolonged use of a computer screen does, unless a person lies down and holds the phone in front of his face. If a person is looking down at his phone, his eyelids are partially closed, which reduces the exposure. The condition of the eyes fluctuates between watering and dryness when exposed to a wide screen, so it is important to look away.”
He adds that in air-conditioned offices, the retention of moisture is further reduced, which aggravates the dryness of the eyes.
CVS causes blurring of vision, dryness, and strain on the eyes. Patients are most commonly prescribed the use of artificial tears to treat this condition. Most applications that serve to prevent CVS have timely screen blackouts, and they also prescribe eye exercises in the breaks.
Dr Deepa Shilpika says, “Most computer screens are placed at a distance of about 50 cm from the eye, because of which the eye gets used to accommodating limited vision. It is advised to look away, at a distant object, for at least 20 seconds every 20 minutes.”
“Washing one’s eyes at regular intervals can also help. The seriousness of CVS should be understood. Dry eyes can affect sleep and cause headaches. Rubbing puts additional stress on the cornea, which causes refractive errors,” she said.
