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Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is complex
eye and vision problems related to near work which are experienced
during, or related to computer use. CVS is characterized by visual
symptoms which result from interaction with a computer display or
its environment. In most cases, symptoms occur because the visual
demands of the task exceed the visual abilities of the individual to
comfortably perform the task.
Computer vision syndrome (CVS) affects three out of four
computer users. It is a series of symptoms related to
extended periods of computer usage. Though it is no cause
for panic, measures can be taken to relieve symptoms of CVS.
CVS can appear as a variety of symptoms. Headaches, eye
strain, neck and back aches, sensitivity to light, blurred
vision, double vision, and dry or irritated eyes are all
possible problems related to CVS.
Any computer user can develop CVS. Your vision, your
computer, and the environment where you use your computer
are all factors that can lead to CVS. |
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There are many aspects of computers and the work environment in
which they are used which may cause or contribute to the development
of eye or vision difficulties. To obtain optimum visual comfort and
work efficiency, all computer operators who could benefit from a
visual correction should wear it. One way to help ensure this is to
remove financial barriers to the employee for obtaining an eye
examination and, when needed, treatment for eye and vision problems.
This can often be accomplished by having an employer or third party
sponsored program which provides eye care services for employees who
work at computers.
As part of an eye care program for computer operators, it may be
necessary to determine whether any treatment, usually in the form of
eyeglasses, is specific to the computer task or whether the same
glasses or treatment would be required for general vision needs.
This may establish whether the employee is eligible to receive
occupationally related eye care services under the program.
Whether aspecialvision condition requires correction with
eyeglasses or other treatment depends upon the clinical findings and
the judgment of the examining doctor. However, the following
criteria are recommended to help determine whether the care provided
is computer related. These criteria are based upon the individual
diagnosis and/or prescribed treatment. Since it is necessary for
computer operators to have an eye and vision examination to
determine whether these criteria are met, it is recommended that an
examination be provided as part of the computer eye care program. |
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Vision problems occur frequently among
video display terminal (VDT) workers. Most worker health
surveys show that the most frequent health related
complaints among workers at VDTs are visually related.
However, more public and professional attention is currently
being directed towards the avoidance of musculoskeletal
disorders such as wrist problems (e.g., Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome), bursitis, muscle strains (e.g., neck tension
syndrome), tendon disorders (e.g., de Quervain's disease),
and tenosynovitis (e.g., trigger finger) among others. These
disorders are generally classified as Cumulative Trauma
Disorders (CTD) or as Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI). |
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VDT related vision problems are at least as significant a health
concern as the musculoskeletal disorders. Most studies indicate that
visual symptoms occur in 50-90% of VDT workers, while a study
released by NIOSH showed that 22% of VDT workers have
musculoskeletal disorders. A survey of optometrists indicated that
10 million primary eye care examinations are provided annually in
this country primarily because of visual problems at VDTs - not a
small public health issue. Vision problems are pervasive among
computer workers and are the source of worker discomfort and
decreased work performance.
There appears to be a communication gap regarding the nature and
extent of vision problems related to VDT use. The vision problems
experienced by VDT workers are varied and are difficult to grasp and
understand by those who don't concentrate in vision. The
misunderstanding may also be the result of unfounded reports of
cataracts caused by VDTs, exaggerated manufacturer claims about the
need for UV and other radiation protections, and misleading
statements about the effects of specialty tinted and coated lenses
(e.g., computer glasses) among other products.
In order to improve communication and understanding of the vision
problems at computers, the American Optometric Association supports
the use of the term "Computer Vision Syndrome" (CVS) to broadly
encompass the visual problems experienced at VDTs. CVS can be used
to refer to the entirety of visual problems experienced by computer
users and therefore improve communication and understanding of these
problems. However, since there is not a single factor or visual
disorder which causes the visual problems at computers, CVS
encompasses many different symptoms, disorders and treatments.
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