In today’s digitally driven world, long hours in front of screens are the norm, whether you’re working remotely, navigating Manhattan’s fast paced professional life, or scrolling through social media. But all that screen time can take a toll on your eyes. If you've ever noticed blurry vision, headaches, or dry eyes after a day at your desk, you may be experiencing Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), also known as digital eye strain.
Computer Vision Syndrome is a group of vision-related problems resulting from prolonged use of digital devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones. Symptoms often include:
Blurry vision
Eye fatigue
Headaches
Dry, irritated eyes
Neck and shoulder pain
These symptoms tend to worsen the longer you’re exposed to screens without proper breaks or eye protection.
There are several ways to reduce digital strain and keep your eyes feeling comfortable throughout the day:
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps relax the focusing muscles of your eyes.
Adjust Your Workstation: Position your screen about an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level. Make sure your lighting reduces glare and avoids direct reflections on your screen.
Use Artificial Tears: If you’re prone to dry eyes, lubricating eye drops can help maintain moisture and reduce discomfort.
Invest in Blue Light Protection: Blue light–filtering lenses or screen filters may reduce the visual stress caused by prolonged exposure to high-energy visible light emitted by digital screens.
Even with these precautions, regular eye exams are essential, especially in a city like Manhattan where screen time is nearly unavoidable. While lifestyle adjustments can reduce some symptoms, only a comprehensive eye exam can uncover underlying issues and provide long-term solutions.
At Drs. Farkas, Kassalow, Resnick & Associates, our eye doctor in Manhattan is committed to protecting your vision and eye health. Routine exams allow us to detect potential eye issues early, even before symptoms become noticeable. Digital strain can sometimes mask or worsen existing problems, so early detection is key to preventing further complications.
We also provide personalized recommendations based on your specific visual needs. Whether you require specialty lenses, dry eye treatments, or adjustments to your workstation setup, we offer guidance tailored to your daily habits and screen use.
Additionally, we ensure your prescription is always up to date. An outdated prescription can make digital eye strain worse, causing unnecessary fatigue and discomfort. Regular checkups help maintain clear, comfortable vision, no matter how many hours you spend in front of a screen.
Digital eye strain is a growing concern in our tech-heavy lives, but it’s not something you have to live with. By taking proactive steps and scheduling regular visits with your eye doctor in Manhattan, you can protect your vision and maintain long-term eye health.
Schedule an eye exam with Drs. Farkas, Kassalow, Resnick & Associates and let us help you reduce digital strain while preserving your vision for years to come. Contact our office in Manhattan, by calling (212) 355-5145 to book an appointment today.