Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)

According to the American Optometric Association, 70-75% of computer workers experience eye and vision problems. This condition includes blurry vision, sore and tired eyes, and neck and shoulder pain, is known as computer eye strain or Computer Vision Syndrome.

Most doctors believe that computer eye strain affects children as well. And when you consider that the average American child spends one to three hours per day on the computer - doing homework, chatting with friends or playing games - it shouldn't be too surprising.

Doctors also believe that too much computer use among kids contributes to the development of myopia or nearsightedness. If you are nearsighted, you have difficulty seeing highway signs and other distant objects, but your vision is fine for close-up tasks such as reading. Myopia occurs when the eyeball is slightly longer than usual from front to back. This causes light rays to focus in front of the retina, rather than directly on its surface, and causes blurry distance vision.

Nearsighted people often complain of headaches, eyestrain, squinting or fatigue when driving, playing sports or looking more than a few feet away. If you notice these symptoms wearing your glasses or contact lenses, you may need a comprehensive eye examination as well as a new prescription. Or if you're able to spot these systems in your children, they should see a doctor as well. Nearsightedness may be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Computer workstations are generally designed for adults. So when a child uses one, their viewing angle should be adapted. They should view the screen slightly downward at a 15-degree angle. The recommend distance between the monitor and children's eyes is 24-28". By sitting closer than 20", they risk eye strain. And to avoid neck, shoulder and back pain, make sure their feet are on the floor, and they can easily reach the keyboard.

Children don't know they need to give their eyes a break. Make sure they take frequent breaks when they're working at the computer. Extended computer use can cause eye focusing and eye strain problems. And that's why having your kids get regular eye exams is so important.