What is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)?

Two or three hours per day at a computer, whether at the office or at home, can lead to:

– blurred vision
– eyestrain
– neck, shoulder and back strain
– fatigue and general malaise

A person who works at a screen and has one of these symptoms has a form of CVS (unless there is another medical condition at play). Even if the computer is being used as a video-game or multi-media entertainment device the same strains on vision and the rest of the body can and often do occur. CVS has been recognized by the American Optometric Association as a significant disability affecting millions. Vision is not the only thing affected  which is why computer vision syndrome has the word syndrome in its name. Discomfort is felt in the muscles of the neck and shoulders, as well as the wrists and lower arm. But the eyes  and the visual menu they are exposed to by the computer environment  play a central role in causing and, if care is taken, preventing CVS.