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If you spend long hours peering at brightly lit screens, you could be damaging your eyes
If you stare at a screen all day, you might suffer from computer vision syndrome
However, for many of us, modern usage involves spending long hours peering at brightly lit screens like computers, televisions and mobile devices.
Further, as we become increasingly dependent on screen-based technologies, more of us are experiencing eye strain and vision problems.
Computer Vision Syndrome on the Rise
A recent Canadian study found that people between the ages of 45 to 54 spend about 7.5 hours each day staring at a screen. The same study showed that 40% of the same group suffers from symptoms of computer vision syndrome (CVS), a condition that’s becoming more common every year.
The root causes of CVS are strain from focusing too closely for too long on a screen, staring at something brighter than the surrounding area and infrequent blinking. In fact, when using a computer we blink less than half as often as usual.
Symptoms of CVS include eyestrain, headaches, difficulty shifting focus, eyes that are itchy, watery or red, blurry or double vision and oversensitivity to light. If these symptoms persist after taking preventative steps, or you notice double vision, see your doctor.
How to Reduce Eyestrain
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends these steps to reduce eyestrain caused by computers:
Originally published in Wellness Matters, Canada Wide Media’s quarterly newsletter on health and wellness.