 Computer
Vision Syndrome 
Computer Vision
Syndrome printable pdf version (80k)
Nearly one-half of American adults use a computer. Studies show
that as high as 90 percent of people who work with computers more
than three hours a day suffer from some type of eye trouble commonly
known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). Because Computer Vision
Syndrome can lead to muscular discomfort in your neck and back,
we recommend the following tips to minimize your risk.
Viewing Distance Between you and your Monitor
The body assumes whatever position necessary to enable the eyes
to see comfortably. A poorly located monitor causes awkward body
positions. It is important that your monitor be located so that
it is comfortable for both your eyes and body.
• A viewing distance of 20-28 inches is most common. If your
viewing distance is outside this range, it may indicate a visual
problem or it may contribute to posture-related symptoms.
Adjusting Monitor Height and Location
The eyes work best at a slightly downward gaze. Therefore, the
center of the monitor should be 4-9 inches below your straight ahead
vision. The monitor should also be positioned directly in front
of you so that you don’t have to look sideways or twist your
body or neck to see it.
• If the screen is too low (more than 9” below your
eyes), consider the following:
Raise the computer screen. (Spacers can be purchased or old phone
books will work).
Lower the chair, but don’t allow the seat to become lower
than the bottom of your kneecap.
• If your screen is too high (higher than 4” below the
eyes), consider the following:
Lower the monitor (take it off the hard drive component of your
computer).
Raise the chair, taking care to keep your feet on the ground.
Lighting
Bright lights or other brightly colored objects in one’s
peripheral vision are uncomfortable for the eyes. Methods of eliminating
bothersome lights from your field of view include:
• Turn off the light that is bothering you.
• Close the blinds or drapes.
• Rotate your workstation so that the bright lights are not
in your field of view.
• Consider wearing a visor or using a shield to block bright
lights.
Reflections from your Monitor
Reflections from your monitor reduce contrast and make it difficult
to see the screen. The following steps will improve screen visibility:
• If possible, remove the offending source of light. You may
be able to turn off the fluorescent light that is causing the problem
or close the drapes or blinds on a window.
• Hoods for your monitor can be used to reduce reflections.
• Look for anti-reflection screens that have been approved
by the American Optometric Association.
Dry Eyes
Studies have shown that we blink approximately 50% less often
when we are working on the computer. This can lead to dry, burning
irritated eyes. If you experience any of these symptoms, we recommend
that you have a bottle of lubricating drops at your desk and use
them every 2-3 hours while on the computer.
Focusing
If you had to hold a 20 pound weight for 20 minutes, chances are
your muscles would start to fatigue and cramp. This principle also
applies to your eye focusing muscles. A common symptom of CVS is
poor ability to change focus from near to far, or difficulty seeing
distant objects at the end of the day. We recommend that for every
20 minutes you spend on the computer screen, you take a 20 second
break and focus on something 20 feet away; the “20/20/20”
rule. This allows your eye focusing muscles the opportunity to relax
and maintain flexibility.
Your doctor may also recommend a pair of computer glasses that you
keep at your computer. Just like we have multiple types of shoes
for running, walking, or dress-wear, so too may you need an occupational
pair of computer glasses. Computer glasses with anti-reflective
lenses help reduce eye-strain from computer glare and provide the
most accurate vision for computer distance.
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