Protect yourself from computer vision syndrome

The drastic rise in cases of computer vision syndrome (CVS) in the past two years has become a cause for concern for Pune ophthalmologists.

The cases are not only common among professionals who work full time on computers but also children.

There has been a 15% rise in cases of CVS in the past two years, which is very high, said doctors. Chairman of the Maharashtra Ophthalmological Society (MOS), Dr Jeevan Ladi, said five years ago the rate of CVS was about 8%. Today almost 25% of the total cases in outpatient departments are of CVS. 

“The increase is drastic and the main concern is that it is not only seen among people of productive age but also children above 10 years,” said Ladi.  He said CVS relates to reduced blinking while working on computers and associated problems.

“Normally it is noticed that while working on the computer our rate of blinking reduces. This is because we try to concentrate on the printed matter, which is less clear than written copy. This causes muscle strain, eye pain, headache, eye strain, tiredness, burning of eyes, dryness, redness and itching,” said Ladi. 

“We have seen CVS cases among children who are addicted to computer games, info-tech (IT) professionals and netizens. Almost 70% of people working in the IT sector (full time) face this problem and are a regular at the eye clinics,” the ophthalmologist said, adding that this can be avoided and further deterioration of eyes can be curbed. 

Ladi recommended the 20x20x20 exercise to prevent CVS. This exercise basically refers to shifting your gaze after 20 minutes; looking at an object about 20 metres away for about 20 seconds. “During this exercise, blink continuously and let the eye muscles relax. Get back to work once you feel better. This will help keep eye strain away,” he said. 

He said problems related to CVS have risen manifold due to the phenomenal rise in IT-related activities, whether by software professionals or others. “Professional use of computers has also gone up along with
personal use,” he said. 

Poona Ophthalmological Society (POS) president, Dr Jignesh Taswala, said frequent movement of eyes is very important for good blood circulation. “If not treated on time CVS can lead to severe dryness in eyes, major headache, strain, muscle spasm and other problems,” he said.