Computer Vision Syndrome

Prescribing for presbyopia is second nature to any eye doctor, but the presbyopic computer user requires special prescribing considerations. 

This usually requires a different prescription and lens design from that which meets the other daily visual needs of the patient. 

Where are the Computer and other near work?

It is clinically useful if computer-using patients measure the distance from their eyes to the computer screen and to reference documents, note the height of these tasks relative to their eyes and bring this information with them to their eye examination. This information is useful to either determine the correct prescription or lens design, or to enable counseling about workstation arrangement or changes.   The viewing distance and height of the computer screen can be obtained by sending an advance questionnaire to the patient. 

• Unusual viewing distances and angles may be unchangeable and mandated by the office arrangement - in which case the prescription should accommodate them.

• Unusual viewing distances and angles may be changeable - in which case the patient should be counseled about work station changes

• Unusual viewing distances and angles may be the result of the patient’s previously uncorrected vision disorder (e.g. long viewing distance due to an uncorrected presbyopia). In this case the patient should be counseled to establish a better viewing distance/angle and the prescription/lens design made for the new arrangement.

Younger presbyopic computer users can be successfully fitted with single vision lenses designed for the computer distance.  This is because they have enough remaining accommodation to see clearly at 40 cm with the intermediate add for the computer distance.  In demonstrating the add, it is important to measure the range of clear vision to ensure that it includes their near visual needs. 

For most younger presbyopes, an add of +0.75 - +1.25 is appropriate. The distance blur through this prescription should be demonstrated to the patient.  For many patients, the distance blur is acceptable since their distance visual needs are limited and the amount of blur created by the relatively low add is small.  If the distance blur is undesirable, the patient will prefer an occupational lens design.

• Early presbyopia

• When a single power enables clear vision at both intermediate and near

• When the distance blur is not a problem for the patient

Glasses are considered “computer glasses” if they are required for use at the computer and if they are different from the glasses used for the patient’s other common visual needs. Computer glasses either have a different prescription or a different lens design than everyday glasses. In other cases, the computer user may have a vision disorder that would not otherwise require correction if they weren't performing a demanding visual job such as at the computer. In these cases, the person needs a pair of glasses that they would not need if they weren't working at a computer.  These are also considered “computer glasses”.

Dry eyes happen when tear glands don't make enough tears or make poor quality tears. Dry tears can be uncomfortable, causing itching, burning, or even some loss of vision. Your eye doctor may suggest using a humidifier in the home or special eye drops ("artificial tears"). Surgery may be needed for more serious cases of dry eyes.