Computer Vision Syndrome

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Do your eyes feel drier and more irritated than usual? Black Friday sales and online Holiday shopping can take their toll on your eyesight. Computer Vision Syndrome is created by spending too much time looking at computer screens, iPads or cell phones. Some research shows that continuous screen use for at least two hours can be enough to trigger symptoms. The longer you spend staring at screens, the more likely you are to develop eye strain symptoms caused by:

  • Constant focusing and refocusing to see the print.
  • Screen contrast levels that make your eyes work harder.
  • Inadequate blinking: Instead of 18 to 22 times a minute, most people blink three to seven times a minute while using screens, causing the eyes to further dry out.

Here are some simple preventative measures to help alleviate eye strain and dryness:

  • Make a conscious effort to blink more often and fully. No partial, quick blinking.
  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
  • Limit light reflections. Light from windows or bright lamps can reflect on your computer screen and cause eye strain.
  • Adjust the screen brightness and contrast. The brightness of your screen should be about the same as the level of brightness in the room around you. This might mean that you need to adjust your screen’s brightness depending on the time of day. A screen contrast of around 60 to 70 percent should feel comfortable to your eyes.
  • Adjust the text size and choose a font that is easy to read.
  • Stretch and move frequently. Computer Vision Syndrome also affects your neck, shoulders and back muscles.

Preservative-free artificial tears can be helpful along with the use of a warm compress. Place a clean washcloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it over closed eyes for a few minutes to relax the muscles.

Your eyes will be happier from incorporating these simple measures and help you to fully enjoy that Holiday shopping! The Medical Center’s Visiting Specialist program includes several eye specialists from Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Retinal Specialist Zach Segal, M.D.

Join us on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, for the first lecture in this season’s Medical Lecture Series: “A Brief Introduction: The Bascom Palmer Eye Institute,” featuring speakers Eduardo Alfonso, M.D., and Byron Lam, M.D., from the Institute. This lecture is graciously sponsored by Healthnetwork Foundation. Visit the Lecture Series page for more information about this and other lectures being offered this season.