April 30, 2021

How much time do you spend each day using digital devices? While digital device use was already experiencing a considerable uptick even before the Covid-19 pandemic, the nature of the health crisis forced many people to work and learn from home. As a result, we’ve relied heavily on computers, cell phones, tablets, and other technology more than ever during the last year.   

These high levels of digital device use are starting to have an impact on our health and wellbeing. Eyecare professionals across the United States are seeing an increase in the number of people scheduling at their practices complaining of symptoms that we now know are related to a condition known as Digital Vision Syndrome or DVS. Many eye doctors now believe that digital vision syndrome is a growing public health concern and that more awareness of the condition is needed to prevent unnecessary suffering.


 

What Is Digital Vision Syndrome?

Also known as computer vision syndrome (CVS) or digital eye strain, digital vision syndrome is estimated to affect more than 65% of people who regularly use a digital device for prolonged periods. It occurs because using a screen makes the eyes work harder than usual. This is due to several factors. First, the viewing distance and angle that you view the screen from is different than the angle you usually use for reading and writing. Second, light or glare on the screen puts your eyes under strain and all digital devices produce artificial blue light which can damage your eyes. And finally, if we don’t maintain good posture when using a digital device, slouching can cause back and neck pain that is commonly associated with digital vision syndrome.

Symptoms of Digital Vision Syndrome

There is a wide range of symptoms associated with digital vision syndrome, including:

• Eye fatigue
   

• Blurred vision
   

• Headaches/migraines
   

• Dry eyes
   

• Eye pain
   

• Neck and shoulder pain
   

• Dizziness

The severity of symptoms can vary, and they can come and go, often depending on how much you use digital devices.


 

Digital Vision Syndrome and Eye Misalignment

The symptoms of digital vision syndrome are also closely related to another problem – eye misalignment. When the eyes aren’t perfectly aligned, the visual system is forced to work to constantly compensate for the misalignment. This puts stress on the trigeminal nerve which is the largest and most complex nerve connected to the brain and is responsible for head and neck sensations. As we already know, using a digital device also places the eyes under excess stress as they must work harder. When you combine eye misalignment with digital device use, it’s unsurprising that the effects can be so significant.

At East Main Vision Clinic, we are constantly looking for ways to solve these common and concerning eye problems. We now have a solution! Neurolens is the first truly effective treatment for combatting eye misalignment. This breakthrough treatment uses contoured prism technology to bring the eyes into alignment, reducing stress and eliminating the symptoms of digital vision syndrome. Prism is incorporated into your lenses so that you can enjoy maximum visual acuity and comfort.

If you would like more information about digital vision syndrome or to schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms, please call East Main Vision Clinic in Puyallup, WA at 253-444-2800 today.