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MIDTOWN OPTOMETRY BLOG / November 1, 2018

Computer Vision Syndrome: What You Didn’t Know

Editorial update: October 20, 2026

Why computer work can be uncomfortable

Computer vision syndrome, also called digital eye strain, describes symptoms during sustained screen use. Near focusing, incomplete blinking, dry eye, glare, posture, and an unsuitable prescription can contribute. Symptoms can include tired or irritated eyes, fluctuating blur, and headaches.

What we look for

We review the distance and height of your screen, the length of your work sessions, contact-lens use, and whether symptoms occur during other near tasks. An examination can identify refractive error, binocular-vision problems, and ocular-surface disease.

Practical changes

Comfortable text size, fewer reflections, regular breaks, and complete blinks are reasonable starting points. Computer glasses are prescribed for the task and working distance. An anti-reflective coating reduces reflections on the spectacle lenses; it is different from blue-light filtering.

We no longer present blue filtering as a proven treatment for digital eye strain or use unsupported productivity percentages. See the blue-light evidence update, breaks and workstation guide, and dry-eye treatment guide.

1 Comment

Corey

Thankss for a great read

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This article was published November 1, 2018. For advice about your own eyes, speak with your optometrist.

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