The most important thing:
- What does the term “computer vision syndrome” mean, and can it arise solely from using computers?
- Which external environmental factors cause this syndrome?
- Prevention and treatment
- How do eye vitamins improve and protect eye health?
In today’s technological world, where computers, tablets, smartphones and other electronic devices play a key role in our daily lives, computer vision syndrome is becoming increasingly common. This is a problem that, unfortunately, affects people of all ages. The risk depends on whether people regularly use electronic devices and how long they spend using them. However, statistically, it occurs more frequently among professionals whose work requires the use of computers. In this article, we will first look at what this syndrome is exactly, then we will outline and examine its causes, as well as the measures for prevention and treatment.
What is computer vision syndrome?
The term computer vision syndrome, also known as digital fatigue, refers to eye strain and a range of other symptoms that affect vision. These problems arise from prolonged use of digital devices in everyday life (at least a few hours a day). More and more people are complaining of eye discomfort and vision problems after prolonged screen viewing and fixation, with the level of discomfort considered to be proportional to the time spent in front of the screen.
According to some statistics, people spend an average of 6-9 hours a day in front of screens. This includes time spent working on computers, entertaining themselves on tablets or smartphones, watching television, etc. Although the exact figures may vary depending on various factors such as age, profession, social habits, etc., prolonged screen time has become a common phenomenon in today’s society. In addition to eye problems, computer vision syndrome can also affect a person’s overall quality of life.
What are the causes of computer vision syndrome?
Long-term use of screens
First, of course, the main reason is the amount of time spent in front of a screen, as mentioned above. The compulsory nature of our work or entertainment on a computer, phone or other screen leads to prolonged periods of focus and unnecessary eye strain due to the light emitted by screens.
Blue light
The screens of electronic devices emit high levels of blue light, which is known for its ability to penetrate deep into the eyes. This type of light can cause eye strain and impair not only good vision but also sleep quality.
Improper body position
Poor posture in front of a computer screen or holding your phone incorrectly can lead to tension in your neck, back and eyes. For example, you might lean forward too much or be in the habit of sitting too close to the screen without maintaining a proper distance. This can increase eye strain and contribute to the development of computer vision syndrome.
Symptoms
Fatigue and eye strain
Feeling of tension or fatigue in the eyes after prolonged screen viewing. Due to the long hours we spend in front of computer screens or other electronic devices, our eyes are exposed to continuous light radiation. This causes eye strain and can lead to fatigue. Poor posture combined with inadequate workplace lighting can contribute to these symptoms. All external factors combine to form a complex mechanism that causes eye discomfort in computer vision syndrome.
Dryness and irritation in the eyes
Reducing the blink rate while using screens can lead to dry, irritated eyes. When we’re focused on screens, we tend to blink less frequently. This results in poor lubrication of the eye’s surface and can contribute to symptoms of dryness and irritation.
Red eyes
Redness is usually caused by the first two symptoms. Increased eye fatigue and reduced blinking frequency are accompanied by dryness, which in turn leads to redness and irritation. Workplaces are often equipped with air conditioning or heating units that can dry out the air. Dry air increases tear evaporation, which also manifests as dry eyes and redness.
Blurred vision
Another typical visual symptom is temporary blurred vision after prolonged focusing on screens. This is characterised as an accommodative problem. Constantly focusing on near objects, as happens when working on a computer, can lead to fatigue of the eye’s accommodation mechanism, which is responsible for adjusting the focal distance. This is precisely what causes blurred vision when changing the distance or orientation of gaze.
Headache
Eye strain can cause headaches or migraines. When we stare at computer screens for long periods, our eyes are constantly focusing, which strains the muscles and leads to headaches. Additionally, dry eyes, infrequent blinking and poor posture can increase this strain, intensifying the headache. Prolonged sitting in front of a computer screen can also contribute to increased stress and tension, which ultimately contributes to headaches.
Preventive measures and treatment
Exact position
Sit comfortably and in the correct posture in front of the computer screen, keeping your head and neck straight. The computer should be positioned so that the screen is at eye level or slightly below. The keyboard should be set at a height that allows the shoulders to relax and the elbows to form a right angle.
The distance between your eyes and the computer screen should be about 50-70 centimetres. This helps to reduce eye strain and avoid excessive focusing. When using a phone or tablet, try to hold them at eye level to reduce strain on your neck and back. Avoid looking down at your phone for extended periods.
Eye rest
Take regular breaks and do eye exercises to take a short break and rest. You can follow the 20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes of work, look at a distant object or out of a window for about 20 seconds. Breaks can help reduce tension and prevent fatigue.
Screen settings and blue light filters
Improve your visual comfort by adjusting the contrast, brightness or font size on your screen. Use blue-light filters on your computer screen or wear special glasses with such filters. Reducing blue light will significantly alleviate some of the symptoms and improve your workflow.
Lighting
Ensure good lighting in your workspace or studio, preferably working with natural light from the windows. Position your workspace so that the light falls on the side of the computer screen to avoid glare. When using electric lighting, warm light is preferable to cold light, as it can create a more pleasant working environment.
Taking dietary supplements and vitamins for the eyes
In addition to the healthy habits and eye care measures mentioned, it is recommended to combine them with taking good and reliable dietary supplements and eye vitamins. They will alleviate your symptoms and have a preventive effect. Neovista Next is precisely such a product for active eye care. The complex action of the dietary supplement contributes to improved vision, has a positive effect on chronic eye problems and supports the normal function of the eyes both day and night.
It also helps with eye fatigue and dryness, including during prolonged monitor work. Regular intake of Neovista Next improves visual acuity and meets the specific needs of the eyes. This product also helps to combat the progression of various eye diseases.
Let’s examine its ingredients and how each one improves vision. Neovista Next contains:
- Goji berry extract: Exceptionally rich in antioxidants, which play a key role in protecting the structures of the eye from oxidative damage. It helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, ultraviolet rays and environmental influences.
- Astaxanthin: This powerful antioxidant not only helps protect the eye from free radicals, but can also improve accommodation (the eye’s ability to focus on objects at different distances).
- Lutein: Known for its ability to reduce phototoxicity, meaning it protects the eye from the harmful effects of intense light. Lutein can also help maintain the good condition of the macula (the part of the retina responsible for central vision).
- Bilberry extract: This extract offers antioxidant protection and vascular support, contributing to eye health.
- Zinc: An important mineral that participates in the metabolism of vitamin A and plays a key role in the visual process.
- Vitamin C: Known for its antioxidant properties, it can help protect retinal cells from oxidative damage. It also improves retinal cell function.
- Selenium: Plays a key role in maintaining the health of the visual system.
These ingredients are carefully selected to support eye health and protect them from various factors that can impair vision and cause eye problems. If you frequently experience the above symptoms, it is important to consult an optometrist or doctor, who, if necessary, will prescribe an individual treatment plan.
In conclusion:
Computer vision syndrome is a widespread problem in the modern world, with the risk of its occurrence depending on the duration of electronic device use, particularly among employees. Unfortunately, vision problems are often an inevitable consequence of neglecting certain rules and failing to observe preventive measures to maintain good eye health. It is up to us to adapt the working environment and lighting to improve visibility and reduce eye strain. Frequent breaks, correct posture and taking appropriate dietary supplements, such as vitamins like Neovista Next, are also key to looking after eye health.
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CHZV:
What are the optimal computer screen settings to ensure eye comfort?
- The optimal computer screen settings can vary depending on preferences and individual needs, but there are some general settings that can help with eye comfort, such as brightness, contrast and colour temperature.
Adjust the screen brightness to a level that is comfortable for your eyes. A screen that is too bright or too dark can cause eye strain. Adjust the screen contrast so that the text and images are clear and easy to see, without being too sharp or pale. Many screens offer options to adjust the colour temperature. It is generally advisable to use warmer (more yellow) colour tones to reduce eye strain.
How often should Neovista Next be taken to achieve optimal results, and what is the recommended dosage?
- One tablet daily after a meal with plenty of water. Suitable for long-term use. If necessary, after six months of use you can take a ten-day break.
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Sources:
- https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/computer-vision-syndrome
- https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/computer-vision-syndrome?sso=y
- https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/computer-vision-syndrome
- https://wedo-care.com/vsichki/zrenie/neovista-next/
