A lot of Florida residents spend a large portion of the day on digital devices — whether it’s remote work, streaming, online school, or catching up with friends. But too much screen time can leave your eyes feeling tired, dry, or achy. These symptoms are often linked to computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain.
At Ciambrone Vision, Dr. Andrew Ciambrone's approach includes comprehensive eye exams, personalized lens recommendations, and practical coaching for healthier screen habits. With offices in Kissimmee and Lakeland, relief from computer eye strain is close to home.
What Is Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer vision syndrome is a group of eye and vision problems caused by extended use of computers, tablets, e-readers, and smartphones. Unlike reading a book or looking across a room, digital screens force your eyes to work harder. Contributing factors include:
- Poor lighting or glare from your screen.
- Improper posture and viewing distance.
- Blue light exposure that disrupts focus and sleep patterns.
- Reduced blinking, which leads to dry, irritated eyes.
While anyone can develop digital eye strain, working professionals, students, and even retirees in Florida are at higher risk due to increased reliance on screens for work, school, and entertainment.
Common Symptoms of Eye Strain from Screens
Patients often describe symptoms that impact both comfort and daily productivity, including:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Headaches, especially after long hours on the computer
- Dry, itchy, or burning eyes
- Neck and shoulder discomfort
- Trouble focusing when switching between digital and non-digital tasks
If these symptoms sound familiar, you’re not alone — computer eye strain affects up to 65% of adults in the U.S., and lifestyle trends in and suggest that number is only rising.
5 Causes and Risk Factors for Computer Vision Syndrome
While anyone can develop digital eye strain, certain lifestyle habits and health factors increase the likelihood of its occurrence. Understanding these causes not only explains why symptoms appear, but also helps patients in and make small changes that protect long-term vision.
1. Screen Time and Blue Light Exposure
The average adult in spends 7+ hours per day looking at computer screens. Blue light emitted by digital devices can disrupt the natural focusing ability of the eyes, leading to fatigue and sleep disturbances.
2. Work and School Demands
With remote work, online learning, and streaming habits, residents in and are spending more hours indoors on devices than ever. This lifestyle shift has led to digital eye strain becoming one of the most common complaints among patients of all ages.
3. Dry Indoor Environments
Air conditioning — practically a necessity in — dries out the air, which can make eyes more irritated during long hours on devices. Reduced blinking while focusing on screens adds to the dryness.
4. Poor Posture and Viewing Distance
Holding a phone too close or leaning into a laptop forces the eyes and neck to work harder. Over time, this can contribute to headaches, stiffness, and blurred vision.
5. Age and Preexisting Eye Conditions
Children may struggle because their visual systems are still developing. Adults over 40 often face additional challenges from conditions like presbyopia (age-related changes in near vision), which increases the demand on their eyes during screen use.
Computer Eye Strain Treatment at
Dr. Andrew Ciambrone takes a personalized approach to computer vision syndrome care, combining technology, tailored advice, and patient-friendly solutions.
- Comprehensive Eye Exams: Detect vision changes that make screens more difficult to tolerate
- Blue Light-Filtering Lenses: Reduce glare and discomfort from prolonged exposure to screens
- Dry Eye Management: Address tear film instability with tailored therapies, including in-office treatments and at-home strategies
- Workstation Adjustments: Coaching on how to position screens, improve posture, and reduce glare
- 20-20-20 Rule Coaching: Teaching patients to take a break every 20 minutes by looking at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds
With offices conveniently located in and , patients can easily access trusted care without the stress of long wait times or unfamiliar settings.
Protect Your Eyes from Computer Vision Syndrome in &
Screen time isn’t going away — it’s woven into daily life in and . But constant discomfort doesn’t have to be part of the package. At , Dr. Andrew Ciambrone provides trusted, individualized care to help reduce the effects of computer vision syndrome and keep your eyes healthier, clearer, and more comfortable.
Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s screen habits, a professional spending hours at a desk, or a retiree enjoying digital hobbies, our team is here to help. Book your eye exam, and our team will ensure that you see and live with greater comfort.
Computer Vision Syndrome FAQs
How do I know if I have computer vision syndrome?
- If you regularly experience blurred vision, dry eyes, or headaches after using digital devices, you may be suffering from digital eye strain. A comprehensive eye exam at can confirm the diagnosis and help create a personalized treatment plan.
Can children develop computer vision syndrome?
- Yes. Children in often use tablets, laptops, and phones for school and play. Their developing eyes are especially vulnerable, making early exams and preventive advice critical.
What is the best way to relieve eye strain from screens?
- Short breaks make a big difference. Following the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds — along with proper lighting and blue light-filtering lenses, can reduce strain.