What Is Computer Vision Syndrome from Too Much Screen Time?

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Computer Vision Syndrome refers to eye fatigue caused by prolonged use of digital screens such as computers or mobile phones.
Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome include dry eyes, burning eyes, eye pain, blurred vision, headaches, and neck or shoulder pain.
Computer Vision Syndrome can be prevented by resting your eyes frequently, adjusting the screen brightness appropriately, maintaining proper posture, using blue light–filter glasses, and blinking more often.

In this era where everything is on screens—whether working, studying, or relaxing—our eyes are under a heavier workload than we might think. If you have ever experienced dry eyes, burning eyes, blurry vision, or headaches after staring at screens for a long period, it may not be just fatigue but “Computer Vision Syndrome,” a group of symptoms caused by excessive screen use. This article will guide you to better understand this condition along with prevention methods and how to take care of your eyes for sustainable use in the digital world.

What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a group of eye and visual symptoms caused by staring at screens from computers, tablets, or mobile phones for long periods, especially when viewing the screen at a distance that is too close (less than half a foot or approximately 6 inches). The symptoms become more severe the longer you use the screen. This condition can occur in both children and adults and the risk increases when using screens in low-light environments or maintaining an improper posture while working.

Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome

Get to know and observe the symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome, with common symptoms as follows:

Dry and irritated eyes
Pain around the eye socket
Eye fatigue or tired eyes
Reduced tolerance to bright light
Slow or difficulty adjusting focus
Blurred vision
Neck pain, shoulder pain, back pain, or headaches

Causes and Contributing Factors of CVS

Various factors related to daily screen-viewing behavior can lead to Computer Vision Syndrome, such as:

Reduced blinking while concentrating on reading or computer use, causing the eyes to dry out more easily
Improper lighting in the room, causing eye strain
Glare or reflections from the computer screen interfering with vision
Text on a digital screen being less sharp than printed characters or unstable screen signals, requiring more effort to focus
Incorrect viewing distance between eyes and screen
Improper eye-level alignment with the screen
Poor working posture causing both muscle fatigue and visual fatigue

Groups at Risk of Computer Vision Syndrome

Office workers in general
Writers or content creators
Graphic designers and visual creators
Students who spend long hours studying or looking at screens
People who work continuously in front of a computer for long periods

How to Prevent Computer Vision Syndrome

There are various methods to manage and prevent visual problems caused by digital screen use. In general, symptoms can be relieved through regular eye care and changing the way screens are viewed, including:

Increase Eye Moisture

Doctors may recommend artificial tears, available in pharmacies, to help increase eye moisture. You should also try to blink more frequently because we tend to blink less when staring at screens. Blinking more often helps produce natural tears and relieve dryness. In addition, doctors may prescribe eye drops or other treatments based on symptoms.

Wear Glasses During Screen Use

Regular glasses or contact lenses may not be sufficient for computer work. It is recommended to have your eyes checked once a year and consult an ophthalmologist about special lenses designed for screen use, which may include adjustments to lens power, tint, or special coatings such as blue-light filtering to enhance comfort and visual efficiency.

Eye Exercises

Eye exercises help the eyes and brain work together more effectively. These exercises can address eye movement problems, focusing issues, and eye coordination, while also enhancing eye-brain connection. Treatment may include both in-clinic training and at-home exercises.

Adjust Proper Sitting Posture When Using a Computer

An important factor in reducing Computer Vision Syndrome is related to posture and workstation setup, including adjusting the lighting properly—not too bright or too dim—using a chair that supports the back well, placing documents nearby to reduce neck movement, positioning the screen at eye level, and resting your eyes every 20 minutes by looking at something about 6 meters away for 20 seconds.

Adjust Screen Brightness and Contrast

Screen brightness should be similar to the lighting in the room. You may need to adjust brightness according to the time of day. Contrast levels around 60–70% will provide more visual comfort.

Control Glare and Blue Light

Reduce discomfort caused by blue light and screen glare by using glasses with special lens coatings, applying screen filters, adjusting screen angle, closing curtains if needed, and cleaning the screen regularly to keep it clear.

Set Up an Appropriate Workspace

Set the desk height to around 66 cm and place the computer screen 40–75 cm away from the eyes (approximately arm’s length). The top of the screen should be positioned slightly lower than eye level and tilted 10–20 degrees. Additionally, a chair with back support and an adjustable document holder should be used. Place documents as close to the screen as possible and at the same viewing distance to reduce frequent focus shifting.

Regular Eye Rest

To relieve muscle fatigue in the eyes, follow the “20-20-20 rule”—every 20 minutes, rest your eyes for 20 seconds by looking at an object about 20 feet (approximately 6 meters) away. When working long hours, take breaks by standing up and switching to activities that do not require close focus, such as walking, stretching, drinking water, or talking with coworkers to allow the eyes to truly relax.

Conclusion

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is visual fatigue and eye problems caused by prolonged use of digital screens such as computers, phones, or tablets. Common symptoms include dry eyes, eye pain, blurred vision, and headaches. Prevention and relief include adjusting screen brightness, proper posture, appropriate viewing distance, and taking regular breaks. If you have symptoms or concerns about your eyes, you can visit Bangkok Eye Hospital for an eye examination and consultation. The hospital has experienced ophthalmologists and advanced technology to take comprehensive care of your eye health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Vision Syndrome (FAQ)

Here are common questions regarding Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) to help you understand the causes, symptoms, prevention, and proper eye care while using digital screens:

Does Computer Vision Syndrome take long to recover?

The duration of CVS symptoms depends on severity and screen usage time. Some people may feel better immediately after stopping screen use, while others may have symptoms lasting for days or longer.

Do glasses help treat Computer Vision Syndrome?

Yes. Special glasses can help reduce glare and visual fatigue from computer use. However, they should be used along with regular eye breaks and proper screen-lighting adjustment for the best results.

Does Computer Vision Syndrome cause permanent eye damage?

Generally, Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) does not cause permanent eye damage or irreversible vision loss. The symptoms are usually temporary, caused by eye fatigue or stress, and typically improve when resting, adjusting viewing habits, and caring for the eyes properly.

Back

Dry eye after LASIK occurs due to the surgery affecting the function of the tear glands, causing reduced tear production and imbalance in the tear film, which leads to eyes feeling dry and less hydrated. Post-LASIK dry eye is usually not dangerous, but if left unmanaged, it can cause irritation or increase the risk of infection. You should consult a doctor if symptoms are severe or persist. Artificial tears after LASIK help moisturize the eyes, relieve dryness and irritation, promote faster recovery, and reduce the risk of complications. After LASIK, many people experience dry eyes, a common issue that can cause significant discomfort. Understanding the causes and proper care—such as using artificial tears or adjusting daily habits—can help restore eye health quickly and safely, allowing you to return to normal life comfortably. Causes of Dry Eye After LASIK The main causes of dry eye after LASIK are related to temporary effects of the surgery on eye function, such as: Corneal flap creation During LASIK, a laser creates a flap in the cornea, cutting some corneal nerves that normally send signals to the brain to stimulate tear production. This temporarily reduces tear production. Corneal surface inflammation LASIK causes mild inflammation on the corneal surface, affecting tear film balance. Normally, the tear film lubricates and protects the eye, but when it becomes unstable, tears evaporate faster, causing dry, irritated eyes. Frequent use of artificial tears can help restore moisture and relieve discomfort. Pre-existing dry eye Patients who already have dry eye before LASIK may experience worsened symptoms after surgery. The procedure affects tear glands and tear film, increasing dryness, irritation, and discomfort. Inform your ophthalmologist beforehand and prepare for close post-surgery care. Is Dry Eye After LASIK Dangerous? Dry eye is common after LASIK and usually not severe. It can cause discomfort, burning, or irritation for a period after surgery. The main reason is that surgery affects tear gland function and tear quality, reducing tear production. With proper care and following medical advice, dry eye usually improves and resolves within a few weeks to months. The Importance of Artificial Tears After LASIK The most effective way to relieve post-LASIK dry eye is frequent use of artificial tears as directed by your doctor, especially in the first week after surgery. Artificial tears contain moisturizing agents like hypromellose, sodium hyaluronate, or carboxymethylcellulose. They are essential for all LASIK patients, helping restore moisture, reduce burning, and relieve dry eye—a common side effect in the first six months after surgery. LASIK affects the cornea and tear production, making artificial tears crucial. Which Artificial Tears Should You Use? Artificial tears come in various types and formulations to suit individual needs, including: Preservative-free single-use vialsThese are used within 24 hours of opening, feel comfortable on the eyes, have lower risk of allergy, but are more expensive than preservative-containing versions. Self-Care to Relieve Dry Eye After LASIK Proper self-care is essential in addition to artificial tears, helping eyes recover fully. Recommendations include: Take regular breaksAvoid prolonged screen time. Follow the “20-20-20” rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet (≈6 meters) away for 20 seconds to reduce strain and maintain moisture. Use eye shields as directedImmediately after surgery, use eye shields to protect from dirt and prevent irritation. Follow doctor instructions, usually for the first day and then nightly for one week, except when applying prescribed drops. Avoid dry environmentsStay away from direct air conditioning, fans, strong wind, or smoke, as these can worsen dryness. Artificial tears help maintain moisture in such conditions. Avoid water contactDo not swim, splash your eyes, or wash your face forcefully to prevent infection or interfere with healing. Avoid eye makeupEyes are sensitive after LASIK, particularly during dry eye recovery. Avoid makeup unless advised by your ophthalmologist, usually allowed one week after surgery. Avoid dustExposure to dust or dirt can cause irritation or infection. Protect eyes with glasses or masks if needed and wash hands before touching eyes. Support eye healthStay hydrated to promote natural tear production. Omega-3 supplements (fish oil or flaxseed) can improve tear quality and reduce dryness. Summary Dry eye after LASIK is a common side effect caused by surgery affecting tear production, leading to dryness and irritation. Proper care—such as preservative-free artificial tears, adequate hydration, and avoiding dust—helps relieve symptoms and speeds recovery. Choosing the right type of artificial tears according to doctor recommendations is important. Bangkok Eye Hospital provides LASIK with advanced technology and post-surgery care for safe and effective results. FAQ About Dry Eye After LASIK How long does dry eye last after LASIK? Symptoms usually improve and resolve within 3–6 months as corneal nerves recover, though some individuals may take slightly longer. Which artificial tears are best? Preservative-free artificial tears are recommended because they are gentle and can be used frequently without causing irritation. Always follow your doctor’s instructions. Can I wear contact lenses if my eyes are dry? No, avoid contact lenses during recovery, as they can increase friction, irritation, and complications.

How to Choose the Right LASIK Procedure If You Rub Your Eyes Frequently

Rubbing your eyes after LASIK can cause corneal flap displacement or injury, which may lead to blurry vision or infection. For those who often rub their eyes, techniques such as PRK and SMILE are generally safer because they do not create a corneal flap, minimizing risks and promoting better recovery. After surgery, patients should avoid rubbing their eyes, refrain from eye makeup, prevent water from entering the eyes, and wear protective eyewear to avoid irritation. Frequent eye rubbing is a habit that should be avoided—especially if you’ve had or are planning to undergo LASIK. Besides causing irritation, it can increase the risk of severe complications. If you wish to correct your vision safely, choosing the right LASIK technique for your habits and following proper aftercare is essential for long-lasting, safe results. Why Rubbing Your Eyes After LASIK Can Be Dangerous Rubbing your eyes—particularly during the recovery period—can cause serious damage. Each LASIK technique involves different healing mechanisms, and eye rubbing can disrupt them in various ways: After traditional LASIK:LASIK involves creating a corneal flap. Excessive rubbing can cause the flap to shift, fold, or detach, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate correction. It may also lead to infection or blurry vision. After PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy):Although PRK doesn’t create a flap, the outer corneal surface is removed during surgery. Rubbing your eyes may delay healing, cause infection, or lead to scarring. Corneal Ectasia (Keratoconus):People who rub their eyes frequently are at higher risk of keratoconus—a condition where the cornea thins and bulges outward. This can make certain types of LASIK unsuitable or worsen the condition after surgery. Best LASIK Techniques for People Who Rub Their Eyes Often If you tend to rub your eyes, consulting an ophthalmologist to evaluate your eye health and select a non-flap or minimally invasive technique is the safest approach. Recommended techniques include: PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) / TransPRK This method reshapes the corneal surface using a laser without creating a flap. It’s safer for frequent eye rubbers since there’s no flap that can shift. The cornea also remains structurally stronger post-surgery.However, recovery takes longer—patients may feel discomfort or blurred vision for 3–5 days, and vision stabilizes more slowly than with LASIK.PRK is ideal for those with thin corneas, athletes, or people prone to eye rubbing—provided they follow postoperative care instructions closely. ReLEx SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) This technique removes a small lenticule of corneal tissue through a 2–4 mm incision, avoiding flap creation. The small incision allows faster recovery and reduces the risk of flap displacement.However, it can’t correct long-sightedness and has certain limits on prescription range. SMILE is suitable for patients with mild to moderate myopia or astigmatism, or for those who want a fast recovery and minimal risk even if they accidentally rub their eyes. NanoReLEx® NanoReLEx® uses advanced nanosecond-level laser energy to reshape the cornea with high precision. The procedure calculates a 3D lenticule customized to the patient’s prescription, which is removed through a 2–3 mm incision.Because it uses low-energy pulses, it causes minimal disturbance to corneal tissue, leading to faster healing and less dryness. The tiny incision helps maintain corneal strength and shape after surgery. SMILE Pro® SMILE Pro® is the most advanced laser vision-correction technology available today. Using the Carl Zeiss VisuMax 800 laser, it completes treatment in only 8 seconds per eye with exceptional accuracy and comfort.It offers superior precision and faster recovery compared to older SMILE versions, making it ideal for patients with higher prescriptions or sensitive eyes. Post-LASIK Precautions for People Who Rub Their Eyes Frequently If you tend to rub your eyes, following postoperative care instructions is critical to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. 1. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes Excessive pressure can dislodge or damage the corneal flap and compromise your results. Learn to control the urge to rub your eyes before and after surgery to preserve long-term vision quality. 2. Use Prescribed Eye Drops If dryness or itchiness causes you to rub your eyes, consult your doctor for lubricating or anti-allergy drops. These reduce irritation, keep eyes moist, and make recovery smoother. 3. Wear Protective Glasses During the first week, wear glasses to shield your eyes from wind, dust, and bright light. They also act as a physical reminder to avoid touching your eyes. 4. Clean Your Eyes Gently Follow your doctor’s cleaning instructions carefully. Avoid rubbing while cleaning—use sterile saline or a clean damp cloth to gently wipe around the eyes to prevent infection and support healing. 5. See Your Doctor Immediately if Symptoms Occur If you accidentally rub your eyes hard or notice pain, redness, tearing, blurriness, or abnormal dryness, see your ophthalmologist right away. These could indicate complications such as flap displacement or infection.Also, minimize screen time and rest your eyes frequently to reduce dryness and fatigue during recovery. Summary For people who rub their eyes often, choosing the right LASIK technique is crucial to minimize complications such as flap displacement or corneal weakening.Non-flap or minimally invasive options like PRK or SMILE are safer and allow faster recovery while maintaining corneal strength. At Bangkok Eye Hospital, our experienced ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic tools to recommend the most suitable LASIK technique based on your eye condition and lifestyle. We provide personalized care and post-LASIK guidance to ensure optimal results and safe, long-term vision improvement. FAQ: LASIK for People Who Rub Their Eyes Frequently Can I still get LASIK if I rub my eyes often? Yes, but with extra caution. Your doctor will assess your eye condition and habits. If you can control your eye-rubbing post-surgery, LASIK can still be performed safely. Otherwise, a non-flap procedure like PRK or SMILE may be recommended. How can I stop rubbing my eyes? Use lubricating or anti-allergy eye drops to relieve dryness and itching. Protect your eyes from dust and wind with glasses, and be mindful of your behavior to break the habit gradually. What should I do if I accidentally rub my eyes after LASIK? If you rub your eyes hard (especially within the first 1–3 months) and experience pain, blurred or double vision, or a foreign-body sensation, visit your ophthalmologist immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent severe damage and restore clear vision.