We live in a world where screens tell us how to go about our day. Having to work on a computer; checking the mails on the phone; or binge-watching our favourite series, our eyes are still getting to see digital screens. Unfortunately, the more hours we spend on screens; the more we become an increased risk of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), an eye condition resulting from prolonged exposure to digital screens. In this blog, we will give you 7 proven ways to cure Computer Vision Syndrome and provide you with practical solutions to take care for your eyes. But before we go for the solutions, let us start first by knowing about Computer Vision Syndrom.

What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

Computer Vision Syndrome, also known as Digital Eye Strain, is a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged use of computers, tablets, e-readers and cell phones. We were not designed to look at a screen for long hours as it causes eye muscle fatigue and discomfort from overexertion.

The typical symptoms of CVS are:

• Eye strain

• Dry eyes

• Blurred vision

• Headaches

• Neck and shoulder pain

• Double vision

Additionally, prolonged screen time makes these symptoms even worse which can stimulate inattentiveness and your overall health.

How to treat your Computer Vision Syndrom:

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

A key way to fight Computer Vision Syndrome is The 20-20-20 Rule. This straightforward guideline -for every 20 minutes spent gazing at a screen, take a 20-second break & see something spotted in the distance (about twenty feet away). This will relax the muscles in your eyes and decrease the tiring effects that a screen can cause over a long period.

In doing so, you are offering your eyes the rest they so desperately need and this means fewer eye strain and dry eyes.

2. Adjust Your Screen Position

Where you position the screen can help reduce strain on your eyes. For example, your computer screen should be 20-28 inches from your eyes and at or slightly below eye level. That way, you can keep your eyes aimed downward at the screen and reduce strain.

Also, try not to locate the screen in an area where it reflects glare caused by windows or overhead lights, as this can make eye discomfort worse. But anti-glare screens can be utilized, or we can place our monitors in a way where the glare is minimal.

3. Blink More Often

Typically, when we focus on screens, we are less inclined to blink. Reduced blinking, in turn, can be the cause of dry, irritated eyes. Blinking is vital because it provides moisture and refreshes the eye surface by distributing the tears across the eye surface.

To defend against dryness, set out the plan of blinking more purposely while using the digital devices. Besides, utilize eye drops (also known as artificial tears) which provide an additional layer of protection and keep your eyes hydrated.

4. Adjust Your Display Settings

Setting up your computer display properly can be very helpful to be free from the strain your eyes suffer. The following are a couple of settings to modify:

Brightness: Set the light intensity of the screen to the same level as the ambient light in the surrounding area. If your screen is too bright for the room, then your eyes will have to work hard to adjust.

Text Size: Raising the font size is a good option to minimize the strain that is caused by squinting at small letters.

Contrast: Use the contrast settings to make sure the text is visible against the background to read without strain.

Colour Temperature: Less blue light coming from the device can be a remedy for eye damage. You can use some software or built-in options to change the colour temperature of your monitor, so it is more of a warm hue (a slight yellow tint cuts the blue).

5. Use Proper Lighting

Lighting has a big impact on how comfortable your eyes feel when you use digital devices. Overhead lights, fluorescent bulbs, and direct sunlight can make your screen glare, which leads to eye strain.

To cut down on glare and make your eyes feel better:

• Go for soft ambient lighting that's easier on the eyes.

• Put your screen in a spot where light doesn't bounce off it.

• Think about getting a desk lamp you can dim or brighten as needed for tasks that need extra light.

6. Take Breaks Often

Along with the 20-20-20 rule, you need to take regular breaks from your screen. Try to get up from your computer every hour for 5-10 minutes at least. Use this time to move around, stretch, and let your eyes rest.

Getting away from the screen helps cut down on eye strain and improves your posture. It also eases tension in your neck back, and shoulders, which often get stiff from sitting and looking at screens for a long time.

7. Think About Getting Computer Glasses

If you look at a screen for many hours each day, buying computer glasses might help you deal with Computer Vision Syndrome symptoms. These glasses are made to cut down on glare, make things easier to see, and block out the blue light from digital devices that can harm your eyes.

You can also get computer glasses that match your prescription. This makes it easier to see and puts less strain on your eyes when you're looking at a screen.

Computer Vision Syndrome has become a common issue in our modern, screen-driven world but it doesn't have to be the case. There are several ways to treat computer vision syndrome, as proven by science, and you can protect your eyes and your visual health by following them. Always remember to let your eyes rest, set the monitor and lighting to optimal levels, and if necessary, opt for specialized eyewear.

In the end, eye health first and foremost will bring you sustainability and progression in your digital era life.