Results from research showed that one in every three digital screen users has computer vision syndrome. From my point of view, writers sit pretty at the top of the screen user charts and are directly the recipients of the consequences of lengthy screen use.
Computer vision syndrome (CVS), also known as digital eye strain, is a vision problem caused by sitting behind a screen or using a digital device for a long time. Writers who earn from writing spend at least, a good part of their days looking at the screen.
It is certain that as a writer, you can not do without staring at a screen and sometimes, in a poorly lit room. So, it becomes a dilemma; should you stop writing and save the eyes or damn the consequences and keep doing what pays the bills? These questions come with good and bad news.
First, the bad news. Computer vision syndrome keeps progressing if left untreated or if some lifestyle habits are not changed. It may have a damaging effect and drastically reduce your quality of life. The good news is that it’s quite preventable and treatable.
As you keep reading, you will find all you need to know about CVS in this blog post.
How do you know if you have computer vision syndrome?
One way to know and understand your body is to be attentive to how it works and sensitive to any changes from its default settings. You may begin to notice some discomforts and changes in your vision, which will trigger the thought of looking out for the general symptoms of CVS. However, I advise you to get a doctor’s appointment for a proper diagnosis.
Writers dealing with eye issues may slightly confuse these symptoms with their already existing diagnosis but those who came into writing with no known eye problems can quickly detect when their eyes begin to protest and show symptoms of CVS.
What are the common symptoms of computer vision syndrome?
Before booking that appointment with your eye doctor, look out for these symptoms generally associated with computer vision syndrome.
- Blurry vision
- Eye irritation
- Itchy eyes
- Headaches
- Dry eyes
- Watery eyes
- Eye redness
- Neck and shoulder aches
- Eye aches
- Heavy eyelids
- Double vision
- Problem focusing the eyes
- Burning sensation
This group of symptoms points to the fact that your eyes are getting compromised with CVS and also serves as a nudge towards taking some safety actions while waiting for your eye test.
How do you test for computer vision syndrome?
Testing for the CVS requires a comprehensive eye exam. First, you must open up to your eye doctor about your screen time and how long you’ve consistently used the screen. Talk about your symptoms, when you became aware of them, how often they occur, and their severity.
Your doctor will examine your eye visual acuity to determine if your vision is still clear, affected, and to what extent.
You will go through another series of tests to determine your visual focus. The result will determine how your eyes focus on single objects or images, eye accommodation, and other functions like your eyes’ uniformity, and how easy it is for them to change focus without obstruction and follow objects seamlessly.
Lastly, the refraction test will determine the type of lenses and power needed to correct your eye defect if any is found. Your eye doctor will place lenses of various powers and measurements close to your eyes to take this test.
Does looking at phone screen affect eyesight?
Our phone screens are known to discharge blue ray lights that have the power to cause headaches, disrupt sleep, and over time, cause damage to the eyes. Therefore, yes. Constantly looking at your phone screen can affect your eyesight.
Many phone users forget to blink while focusing on their phones. While at that, you could be stressing your eyes, leading to dryness and irritation.
Does computer vision syndrome go away?
Computer vision syndrome can go away a few hours after resting your eyes from screens and bright lights. It only worsens and escalates when you constantly fight it just to meet writing deadlines. Resting the eyes and going back to looking at your device screen in a poorly lit room over another long period can bring back the symptoms, immediately.
How long does computer vision syndrome last?
The severity of symptoms and the healing journey differ from person to person, exactly the reason why you can’t place a time tag.
However, if left untreated, CVS can linger for as long as you keep using the screens and after. The symptoms can easily metamorphose and cause permanent damage to the eyes.
A proper eye care plan can have your eyes feeling all good and dandy in a short period if you are lucky, because, not everyone can be free from digital eye strain.
How can I improve my computer vision?
When managing computer vision syndrome as a writer or a digital screen user, be sure to include working eye care tips in your everyday life.
More so, if you received some prescriptions like glasses and eye drops, take them religiously and make some changes in your work and environment. It will help improve your vision in no time.
Some of these changes include:
Intentionally take breaks
You don’t have to sit behind your computer or look into your device till the last battery percent drains off. Learn to look away from your screen, stand up, stretch, and walk around. Taking a short nap is another well-deserved break because you get to close your eyes and give them time to rest and rejuvenate. If you are not napping, remember to blink repeatedly. It helps to water the eyes and prevent drying. Practice the 20-20-20 vision rule.
Reposition your workstation
Working in a dimly lighted room exposes your vision to unnecessary stress. To improve it, move your workstation to a room with natural and bright lights.
Adjust your computer
Your computer’s screen brightness should not be too bright or too dim. Times New Roman and number 12 may be your go-to font and size, respectively. However, you can increase the size font while still writing and readjust when you are ready to publish or deliver your work.
Invest in screen filters for your computer
There are nice screen filters that can reduce glare from your screen. Not only glare, they tone down the blue lights from your screen. Glare from bright lights and blue lights are part of what causes eye strain.
Use anti-blue light glasses
Do not sleep on blue light-blocking glasses if you know you write for long hours. As a matter of fact, you should have more than one blue light-blocking glasses as a writer.
Practice the ideal position for working on a computer
Sit with your back straight and feet planted on the floor. Your working chair must support your neck, back, and arms while you work. Place your computer on a hard surface and directly in your line of vision, at least, 28 inches away from you. Ensure it is a little bit below eye level. Your keyboard must be within reach so that your shoulders are relaxed while typing.
Reduce screen time
To be realistic, it may be hard to do this as I understand a writer’s workload and need to deliver on time. However, if you find a way to reduce your daily screen time, it will help improve your vision.
Can computer vision be cured?
Computer vision syndrome will hardly disappear permanently without a strict lifestyle change, leaving the screen completely, getting good eye treatment, and sticking to your medication.
