Computer Vision Syndrome / Digital Eye Strain

Are digital screens affecting your vision?

Turns out, they could be. Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), a.k.a. digital eye strain, refers to a group of vision-related issues that can pop up from using digital devices for a long period of time.

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Eye Health Resources
Computer Vision Syndrome & Digital Eye Strain

Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome

  • Dry eyes
  • Headaches
  • Blurred vision
  • Eyestrain
  • Neck and shoulder pain

How to go easier on your eyes

In addition to having to focus and refocus on screens, there's a 60% decrease in the amount of blinking when using digital devices, which can dry out your eyes, contributing to the possibility of digital eye strain.

Fortunately, there are ways to help.

  • Look 20 feet away for 20 seconds, every 20 minutes
  • Keep your computer screen 20-28 inches away from your face and slightly below eye level
  • Try to remember to blink

Life demands more of your eyes

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ACUVUE® OASYS MAX 1-Day contact lenses are intentionally designed with innovative technologies to help with today's digitally intense lifestyle.

Do more for your vision off-screen

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Stay protected from UV rays#

We know to protect our skin from the sun, but what about our eyes?
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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Why are my eyes sore?

Your eyes may be sore from a variety of minor issues or more serious conditions. Less serious causes of sore eyes could include mild allergy, or dryness from being out in the wind.

Serious causes of sore eyes include:

  • Inflammation of the eye due to trauma, infections or immune system difficulties
  • Infection of the eyelid or cornea
  • A foreign object in the eye

If your eye soreness is severe, or even if mild soreness is persistent or recurring, consult with your eye doctor.

How to get rid of bloodshot eyes?

If your eyes are severely red or bloodshot, especially if this is associated with any pain or blurry vision, you should contact your eye doctor. For minor cases of bloodshot eyes, you may try over-the-counter eye drops and cold compresses. Don't rub your eyes or the irritation could worsen. Avoid anything that could be a trigger, such as pollen or cigarette smoke. If bloodshot eyes continue to be an issue despite your best efforts at home to alleviate the problem, contact an eye doctor who can do a thorough eye exam to see if there is a larger problem going on.

How can computer glasses reduce eye strain?

Computer glasses are glasses designed specifically to be used at the distance that you view digital devices, such as computers, tablets and smartphones. They're usually a custom prescription made to help reduce eye strain from focusing on digital screens.

How many times do you blink a day?

The average person will blink more than 14,000 times a day. How many times you blink a day will vary based on the number of hours you're awake and your habits during the day. For example, people who are often engaged in work on a computer tend to blink less. Blinking too infrequently may lead to discomfort and blurry vision.

Do eye drops help eye strain?

Eye drops specifically designed for dry eyes may help alleviate eye strain symptoms if a component of the strain is dryness. Eye drops can help rehydrate your eyes to provide temporary relief. However, they may not be able to address the root cause of eye strain and only provide short-term relief. Other treatments for eye strain include reducing screen time, adjusting your lighting, and using a humidifier to improve your air quality. If these adjustments don't help resolve your eye strain, contact your eye doctor.

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Footnotes

Consult your eye care professional for more information.  Johnson & Johnson does not provide medical advice; this information is for educational purposes only.

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WARNING: UV-absorbing contact lenses are NOT substitutes for protective UV-absorbing eyewear such as UV-absorbing goggles or sunglasses because they do not completely cover the eye and surrounding area. You should continue to use UV-absorbing eyewear as directed. NOTE: Long-term exposure to UV radiation is one of the risk factors associated with cataracts. Exposure is based on a number of factors such as environmental conditions (altitude, geography, cloud cover) and personal factors (extent and nature of outdoor activities). UV-blocking contact lenses help provide protection against harmful UV radiation. However, clinical studies have not been done to demonstrate that wearing UV-blocking contact lenses reduces the risk of developing cataracts or other eye disorders. Consult your eye care practitioner for more information.

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