Computer Vision During Remote Learning or Working From Home

This year, we are finding ourselves in front of our computer screens a bit more than normal. Remote learning and working from home means that in-person meetings and instruction have been replaced with video conferences and online classes. While the ability to work and attend school from home is convenient, there are some downsides, especially when it comes to your eyes. Many adults and children are experiencing computer vision. At Cascade Eyecare we are committed to helping people in Bend, OR understand and manage computer vision.

What Is Computer Vision?

Computer vision, which is also called digital eye strain, is caused by looking at screens for long periods of time. Computer vision can occur due to smartphone, tablet, computer and laptop screens, which means this vision issue is on the rise due to the sudden uptick in online learning and working from home.

There are a combination of factors that contribute to computer vision, including blue light from electronic devices, the reflection and glare from screens and the angle at which we look at screens. Computer vision is not likely to cause long-term damage to your eyes, but it is uncomfortable and inconvenient.

Symptoms of Computer Vision

Even people with completely normal vision can experience computer vision or digital eye strain. After looking at a screen for too long, you may experience:

• Blurry vision
• Eye twitching
• Discomfort of the eyes
• Headaches
• Scratchy, red or dry eyes
• Neck or shoulder pain

Relief for Computer Vision

If you, or your child, are experiencing computer vision during your work or school day, there are a few things you can do to prevent and relieve digital eye strain.

• Set up your space – Proper ergonomics can help prevent computer vision. Set up your work or learning space so that the screen is four to five inches below eye level and sit roughly 25 inches away from the screen.
• Remember to blink – We typically blink about 15 times each minute, but while looking at a computer screen that amount can decrease by half. This causes eyes to dry out. Remind yourself to blink naturally and use artificial tears is you experience dry eyes.
• Take a break every 20 minutes – After 20 minutes of screen time, your eyes need a brief chance to refresh and refocus. Look away from the screen and focus on something at least 20 feet away, for at least 20 seconds.
• Take a longer break every two hours – After two hours of work or class, it is time for a 15 minute break. Get up, move around and do not look at any screens during this time.
• Adjust your lighting – Staring at a screen that is brighter than its surroundings is particularly hard on eyes. Adjust the brightness of your computer screen so that it matches the lighting of the room. You should also adjust lamps so that there is no light shining on to the computer screen, which can cause uncomfortable glares.
• Use blue light glasses – High-frequency blue light is one of the largest causes of computer vision. Even people that do not normally need corrective lenses can benefit from blue light glasses, which block these harmful waves from entering your eyes.

Schedule an Optometry Appointment with Cascade Eyecare

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of computer vision, it may be time for an optometry visit. At Cascade Eyecare, serving Bend, OR, we can diagnose computer vision and help you find the solutions that work best for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.