What is Computer Vision Syndrome and Can Eyemuse Help?

Computers, phones, and devices are central to daily life, with many people spending over eight hours a day using them, often leading to Computer Vision Syndrome. This condition causes discomfort, including eye strain, dryness, and blurred vision, making it difficult to use devices for extended periods. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent and manage computer vision syndrome, such as taking regular breaks and using supplements like Eyemuse. Eyemuse, which contains Lacticaseibacillus paracasei KW3110, may help alleviate symptoms and promote overall eye health, providing relief from the discomfort caused by prolonged screen time.

What is computer vision syndrome?

Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain) is caused by prolonged use of screens like computers, phones, and tablets. Extended screen time exposes the eyes to blue light, leading to symptoms such as eye discomfort, dryness, and blurred vision, making it challenging to focus on devices for long periods.

Signs and symptoms of computer vision syndrome include:

• Eye pain

• Irritated or Dry Eyes 

• Blurred vision

• Headaches

• Neck aches

• Backaches

• Muscle fatigue (1)

Now, why do these symptoms occur? Well, when you look at your device, your eyes are constantly focusing and refocusing, moving back and forth to read, and reacting to changes to the screen. This requires a large amount of effort from your eye muscles, which leads to strain over time. Additionally, when you stare at a screen, you tend to blink less than normal. Over time this can dry out your eyes and blur your vision (2).

There currently is no evidence to suggest that computer vision syndrome can cause permanent eye damage. However, it can make necessary daily tasks like working difficult and uncomfortable (1). 

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) occurs when prolonged screen use strains eye muscles from constant focusing and refocusing, leading to discomfort. Additionally, staring at screens reduces blinking, causing dry eyes and blurred vision. CVS directly affects the eyes and muscular-skeletal system, making daily tasks uncomfortable. Roughly 60 million people worldwide are affected, with the condition rising from 50% to 78% of adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, as more people relied on devices for work and communication. Children are also impacted, with 50-60% experiencing symptoms of CVS, highlighting the growing prevalence of this condition across all age groups (3).

How to avoid computer vision syndrome?

To prevent Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), the best approach is to avoid it altogether. Here are some practical methods to reduce your risk:

1. Rest your eyes: Use the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to let your eyes refocus. Also, take a 15-minute break after two hours of screen use.

2. Blink more often: Blinking frequently helps lubricate the eyes and reduce strain, as we tend to blink less when using screens.

3. Adjust your lighting: Reduce glare by positioning your screen away from direct light. Use blinds, lower-wattage bulbs, and minimize overhead lighting or reflections from windows.

4. Use anti-glare screens: If glare is unavoidable, consider using an anti-glare filter to protect your eyes.

5. Optimize your screen position: Place the screen 15-20 degrees below eye level and adjust your chair for proper posture, with feet flat on the floor and arms supported (4).

These habits can significantly reduce the risk of CVS and improve comfort during device use.

What can help with computer vision syndrome?

If you're experiencing Computer Vision Syndrome, several treatments can help with the guidance of an eye care professional:

1. Special lenses: Prescribed lenses with tints, coatings, or designs for computer use can improve comfort and reduce strain.

2. Vision therapy: A program of eye exercises that trains the eyes and brain to work together, addressing issues like eye focusing, movement, and tearing.

3. Preservative Free Artificial tears: Over-the-counter eye drops can relieve dry eye symptoms, moisturizing the eyes to reduce irritation and discomfort.

Consult with an eye care professional to determine the best treatment plan for your symptoms.

Can supplements help with computer vision syndrome?

Supplements may help prevent and treat Computer Vision Syndrome by supporting eye health. Key nutrients include vitamins A, C, E, D, B vitamins, zinc, selenium, lutein, and zeaxanthin. A diet rich in these vitamins, along with supplementation, may alleviate some CVS symptoms and improve overall eye comfort.

Why Eyemuse is a great choice for computer vision syndrome

If you’re seeking out a supplement targeted at improving eye health, specifically computer vision syndrome, look no further than Eyemuse. Eyemuse contains Lacticaseibacillus paracasei KW3110, a postbiotic that has clinical evidence that it promotes eye health.*

Initial research has shown that from a mechanistic level, KW3110 possesses anti-inflammatory effects and potentially prevents retinal damage. Studies in humans have found that Eyemuse significantly reduced critical flicker frequency, an indicator of eye fatigue, eye discomfort, stiffness, and fatigue (5).*

Eyemuse may help with computer vision syndrome in the following ways*:

• Reduce eye fatigue caused by digital stress and electronics

• Decrease stiffness in the waist or shoulders in those with eye fatigue

• Minimize eye damage from excess blue light exposure 

Conclusion

Computer vision syndrome can certainly be uncomfortable, causing issues such as eye strain and fatigue. Thankfully, there are several lifestyle habits you can implement to avoid computer vision syndrome, including incorporating an eye health supplement into your routine. One such supplement, Eyemuse, is a great solution. Tested in both animals and humans, preliminary evidence shows that Eyemuse may mitigate symptoms of eye fatigue and discomfort, making it a great solution for computer vision syndrome.*

If you want to give Eyemuse a try, you can find this innovative eye ingredient inside of the Eyemazing eye gummy from Zen Nutrients.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References

1. https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/computer-vision-syndrome

2. https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/computer-vision-syndrome

3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24802-computer-vision-syndrome

4. aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/computer-vision-syndrome?sso=y

5. https://eyemusehealth.com/science