Skip to main content

Computer Vision Specialist

Whitson Vision

Board-Certified Ophthalmologists located in Avon, IN & Indianapolis, IN

In today’s technologically advanced world, nearly everyone stares at a computer screen for several hours each day. If you suffer from eye problems as a result of using a computer, it’s called computer vision syndrome (CVS), and Alicia R. Grove, OD, Matthew Doore, OD, Alyssa M. Berry, OD at Whitson Vision in Indianapolis and Avon, Indiana, specialize in diagnosing and treating these types of eye problems. Computer vision syndrome can affect both children and adults, so it’s a good idea to have your whole family evaluated. Call Whitson Vision or use online booking to schedule an appointment today.

Computer Vision Q & A

What is computer vision syndrome?

CVS, also called digital eye strain, occurs as a result of repetitive computer use. When you look at a computer screen for several hours a day, your eyes have to focus and refocus as you read, look away from the screen, then look back again as you type. Your brain has to process these images as quickly as your eyes react to the changing images.

All this effort can strain your eye muscles, especially as you get older and the lenses in your eyes become less flexible than they were when you were younger.

What are the symptoms of computer vision syndrome?

The most common symptoms of CVS include:

  • Headaches
  • Neck, back, and shoulder pain
  • Dry, red eyes
  • Blurred vision
  • Double vision

Generally, the more you stare at a screen, the worse your symptoms get over time. Glare from the screen, poor lighting, and bad posture can also make CVS symptoms worse.

What treatments are available for computer vision problems?

Sometimes symptoms are temporary and improve when you take a break from your screen for a few hours or a couple days. In other cases, such as if you need eyeglasses, but don’t wear them, or have uncorrected vision issues, symptoms may continue even after you’ve stopped looking at a screen.

Once your physician at Whitson Vision diagnose your specific problem, including testing how well your eyes focus at various distances, and if you have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, they can recommend effective treatments.

You may need computer glasses that reduce glare from your screen or to participate in vision therapy to train your eyes to improve their focusing abilities. Additionally, you can make changes to the height and position of your computer screen, your seating position, and the lighting in the room to help alleviate eye and muscle strain. Regularly scheduled eye exams can help your physician monitor any changes in your condition so she can make adjustments to your treatment.

For an individualized assessment and approach to computer vision syndrome, call the knowledgeable Whitson Vision team to schedule an appointment or use the convenient online booking tool.