“There’s no longer any doubt that computer eye strain is a very real health condition or that it adversely affects work performance,” says VSP network doctor Stephen Glasser, O.D., of Washington, D.C., who specializes in treating the condition.

How can you distinguish between ordinary eye fatigue and computer eye strain? According to Dr. Glasser, “If you’re experiencing two or more of these symptoms daily, you can be pretty sure you’re struggling with computer eye strain:”

• Blurred vision is the most common symptom. You may experience blurred vision or a delay in focusing when you shift your gaze from the computer screen to distant objects.
• Dry eyes can exhibit a variety of symptoms. You may feel like there’s something in your eye that you can’t remove, or your eyes may seem to burn, sting or be inflamed.
• Eye strain is typically described as vague eye discomfort. You may feel the need to squint or you may notice you’re constantly frowning while looking at the monitor (for reasons other than what’s on the screen).
• Glare sensitivity increases if your monitor is either too bright or too dark. Your eyes may feel tired from constantly trying to focus and refocus on the screen.
• Headaches — not just those in the eye area — could be caused by computer eye strain.
• Neck and shoulder pain, while not directly related to vision, can add to computer eyestrain. You may find that you’re leaning away from a monitor that’s too close or twisting your upper body due to a non-ergonomic workstation.

Author: Tom Nugent,
Staywell Custom Communications

Reviewed By:
Denis Humphreys, O.D.
VSP Optometry Director

Mark Bronstein, M.D.
VSP Medical Director

Last Reviewed: January 2007