Computer Vision Syndrome-An Emerging Occupational Hazard

Computers are becoming popular day by day as an important workplace tool. Our eyes are the visual organ which works all the time when we are awake. Continuous work at computer puts additional stress on the eyes. It can cause permanent changes and damage to the eyes and visual system, resulting in eye fatigue, dryness, redness, watering eyes, irritation, blurred vision and muscular pain etc. Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a collection of eye and eye related symptoms experienced due to prolonged computer use. There are a number of risk factors that may contribute to CVS such as duration of computer use, low contrast computer screen, uncorrected vision conditions, reduced blinking and eye movement rate, aging, systemic diseases, use of medications, workplace lighting, design and computer adjustment. The patients with CVS may be presented with asthenopia (accommodative), ocular surface, extra-ocular symptoms and other visual problems. A thorough patient history and eye examination, visual acuity, refraction test, orthoptic and tear function test helps to diagnose the problem. Computers are the integral part of our life, thus we cannot avoid using them. Maintaining a good eye health, eye exercises, alternate rest breaks, workplace lighting and ergonomic modifications and correction of the computer usage techniques can prevent and modify the condition. A neglected and undiagnosed condition may lead to loss of productivity among computer users. Nurses working in the community, hospital and occupational health setups are in a key position to identify the high risk groups for developing CVS and to create awareness CVS, its risk factors, diagnosis, prevention and management.