Computer Visual Syndrome

Most of our contemporaries do not represent their lives without a computer. They accompany us everywhere - in the office and on vacation. Before the monitor, according to an independent study, a modern man spends about a third of the year. Many, having spent the day at the computer, rest, at the TV or, "hovering" in social networks. Naturally, vision problems among people have increased - xerophthalmia, blurred vision, fast fatigue from any visual strain. This was joined by a symptomatology associated with a sedentary sedentary lifestyle. The combination of these features at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries has acquired the name: computer visual syndrome. Symptomocomplex of this visual pathology, the development of which provokes a long pastime behind a computer monitor, is described by one term - asthenopia or eye fatigue. It does not belong to the organic lesions of the eye, it is a functional disorder. However, the rapid appearance of visual discomfort significantly reduces the quality of life.

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Epidemiology

Statistics show that one in six people who were examined by an ophthalmologist linked the observed pathologies of vision with a long-time pastime at the computer.

Two-thirds of the inhabitants of the planet whose activity and / or leisure are associated with regular prolonged sitting at the monitor have problems with sight, a fifth of them complain of uncomfortable sensations, soreness of the spine in the collar and lumbar zone, signs of such a professional pathology as neuralgia carpal tunnel.

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Causes of the computer visual syndrome

The rays emanating from computer and television displays, which had previously been accused of pathological effects on the body, are now justified. Some types of radiation have not been detected at all, while others, because of their insignificance, do not pose a real threat to human health, in particular, and for sight.

The main reason for the appearance of this syndrome is called the effects of the monitor: the image is always highlighted, it is not a whole, but consists of the smallest merging elements (pixels), the outlines of the image because of this are less clear, besides on old computer screens equipped with a cathode ray tube, also flickering. All this further burdens the system of vision, adapted in the process of evolution to the perception of images in reflected light.

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Risk factors

Direct risk factors for the onset of computerized visual syndrome:

• arrangement of a place where there is a laptop or a stationary computer, without taking into account ergonomic indicators: illumination, distance to the display, glare on it from the sun from the window or lighting devices, unsuitable brightness of the image;
• presence of visual deviations from the norm, congenital or age (astigmatism, myopia, hyperopia);
• the absence of technological interruptions in the work leads to the fact that the worker begins to blink much less frequently in order to focus and keep his eyes on the symbols on the computer monitor;
• reprinting large amounts of text, related to the need for constant refocusing of vision from paper to the monitor, graphical works of high complexity, performed on the computer;
• interactive mode of operation.

The risk group includes those suffering from chronic joint diseases, carpal tunnel syndrome, tremor paralysis, hyperthyroidism, menopausal women, and patients undergoing antiallergic therapy taking diuretics, anticholinergics, psychotropic drugs.

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Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of this process consists in the peculiarities of perception by the human eye of the illuminated intermittent image. Our organ of vision has for ages used to perceive images in reflected light. Television and computer screens appeared relatively recently. Long-term vision tension associated with the specificity of computer images causes the appearance of painful symptoms: the eyes quickly become tired, the ability to clearly distinguish objects, to estimate the distance to them, to clearly see with both eyes is broken.

At the same time, a long sitting position without changing the posture promotes the appearance of degenerative changes in the spine and the symptoms of osteochondrosis.

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Symptoms of the computer visual syndrome

This condition is not considered a disease. He is treated as a borderline, that is - the threshold of the disease. However, if there are first signs of asthenopia, they should not be ignored. The sensation of a foreign body in the eyes, itching, soreness and / or rezi with the movement of the eyes, hyperemic mucous membrane of the eyelid with inflamed vesicles, lachrymation - symptoms of xerophthalmia. At a later stage, pain in the eyes, a sensation of fever around the eyes, a headache are added.

Direct visual disturbances are manifested as an indistinctness of the visible object - it doubles or diffuses, there is a veil before the eyes; distorted perception of the shape or size of the visual image; To switch from objects that are near, to more remote ones, some time is needed; rapid eye fatigue in any visual work.

The results of the research showed that after a working day spent behind a computer screen, a person undergoes a reversible decrease in the ability of the eye to quickly adapt to the vision of objects at various distances; some users temporarily lose the ability to relax the muscles of the eye (accommodation to the distance) - there is, so-called, false myopia. There were recorded cases of impaired coordination of the eye muscles, a decrease in contrast vision sensors and other visual impairments.

Complications and consequences

Serious consequences and complications for the organs of vision as a result of prolonged work on the computer have not yet been revealed. Nevertheless, in the presence of congenital or acquired diseases of this sense organ, they can progress. Especially, it concerns myopia, which is not only aggravated, but in persons predisposed to it (having anomalies in the shape of the cornea and lens, exceeding the size of the anterior-posterior axis of the eye) can develop.

On the background of functional visual disorders, often attacks of migraine-like pain, increased excitability, symptoms of cervical and / or lumbar osteochondrosis, may cause false myopia (especially in a child). An irresistible desire to rub or scratch sore eyes, wipe away tears often causes infection and the development of complications in the form of inflammatory processes (blepharitis, keratitis, conjunctivitis).

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Diagnostics of the computer visual syndrome

The appearance of fatigue symptoms in the process of communicating with the computer makes it necessary to consult a specialist for examination. Pathological changes in the anatomical structure of the eye with this, as a rule, not, but still worth exploring, because of the insignificance of defects a person can not guess about their presence. If a person does not have organic eye disorders, then the symptomatology gradually disappears after stopping the regular use of the computer or taking measures to optimize the arrangement of the workplace and the operating mode.

However, a complete examination of the organs of vision is necessary, since some defects, for example, such as widespread, hidden divergent strabism, can be the cause of asthenopia symptoms even if the subjects equipped with monitors are completely excluded from life, which is unlikely.

To confirm the diagnosis, tests are made: tear production (Schirmer's test), tear film resistance (Norn test), and a test for degenerative changes in the conjunctiva and cornea with Lissamin green (Otorolik test). If suspected of a secondary infection, a bacterioscopic examination of the smear from the conjunctiva is prescribed.

Modern instrumental diagnostics will help to comprehensively examine the organ of vision for the presence of any hidden pathologies. The patient is determined by visual acuity, refraction of the eye with the help of devices autorefekertameter, oroprotor. The volume of the absolute and the reserve of relative accommodation is determined by means of a proximetre or computerized ccomodomography. Investigation of the fundus is made using an ophthalmoscope. If necessary, the patient can be assigned ultrasound examination of the eyes and computer coherence tomography.

Differential diagnosis

Differential diagnostics is performed on the basis of examination of the patient and analysis of the results of the examination to exclude allergic conjunctivitis, blepharitis, lagophthalmus, ametropia (different forms), presbyopia, xerophthalmia, not associated with long hours spent at the monitor (diabetic, climacteric, etc.).

Treatment of the computer visual syndrome

First of all, they fix the shortcomings concerning the ergonomics of the workplace and the irrational mode of operation. Often, such measures are sufficient for the initial stages of pathology development. The use of medication is possible only after carefully diagnosed and prescribed by a doctor.

In the therapeutic regimens for the treatment of the computerized visual syndrome, drugs that form a polymeric film on the surface of the cornea of the eye have been widely used to protect it from drying at a time when the number of blinking movements decreases dramatically, the so-called "artificial tear".

For example, eye drops Systein, belonging to the drugs of a new generation. This means for prosthetics of natural tear film is intended to eliminate the symptoms of xerophthalmia, which appeared as a result of a long period of using the computer. A special feature of the drug is the ability to adjust to the patient's tear fluid depending on the stage of the disease. Getting into the eyes, the drug can remain liquid, and can thicken to the state of jelly. The polymer basis of Systein is polydronium chloride, which is an inert substance and does not affect the mucous membrane of the eye. Characterized by speed, it is enough to drip one or two drops once in the morning. Sometimes you may need two or three instillations. Washed from eyes with tears. In addition to a possible hypersensitivity reaction, no other side effects have been recorded.

Drops Optove belong to the group of drugs based on cellulose. Carmellose sodium (cellulose gum) of two types acts moisturizing and helps stabilize the lacrimal film. The second active substance - glycerol, reacting with a tear fluid increases the moistening of the cornea. Drops are instilled in one or two as needed. Contraindicated in case of sensitization to components. Overdose by them is unlikely.

Drops of plant origin  Innoksa  and the preparation  Natural tear  are applied as needed, digging into each eye one or two droplets. They eliminate fatigue, relieve inflammation, redness, return the eyes a comfortable state, moisturizing the cornea and compensating for the lack of tear film.

Systemic action such drugs do not have, they are practically not absorbed into the bloodstream from the mucous membrane and are not found in breast milk, therefore, under indications and under the supervision of a doctor, they can be used for pregnant and lactating women. Driving a car is possible after a while after instillation, when sight will find the usual sharpness. Combine with any drugs of general action, with other local ophthalmological agents should not be combined. If there is a need for simultaneous application of different drops for the eyes, time intervals recommended by the doctor should be maintained between instillations.

Before instillation, in general, it is always necessary to remove contact lenses.

For resorption of eye hemorrhages with a preventive purpose, antioxidants can be included in the treatment regimen, for example,  Emoxipin  - 1% solution for instillation into the eye. The active substance of the drug methyl ethylpyridinol reduces permeability and increases the elasticity of the eye vessels, with the help of which small hemorrhages in the mucous membrane of the eye and its retina dissolve. Increases its resistance to excessive lighting, oxygen deficiency, prevents ischemia and oxidation. Apply, burying in each eye one or two drops, if necessary - twice or thrice a day. Do not apply to persons sensitized to the ingredients of drops.

For the same purpose, vitamins C, A, and E are used. Strix  is a well -known product  , a bioactive food supplement with retinoprotective action. The natural components of plant origin, which are part of the product, have an antioxidant and adaptogenic effect:

• beta-carotene - indispensable for normal color perception, twilight vision and function of adaptation to darkness;
• standardized bilberry extract (allowing to preserve the most valuable components for vision - anthocyanosides) increases resistance to eye strain, stimulates the production of rhodopsin, which contributes to acute vision in case of lack of lighting, has antioxidant properties;
• lutein is able to increase immunity and bind free radicals, its origin is vegetable.
• antioxidants tocopherol and ascorbic acid, mineral components: zinc and selenium act synergistically with all the ingredients, in addition, zinc prevents the development of cataracts.

After taking the drug, the feeling of eye fatigue is eliminated, it is easier to transfer significant loads to the organ of vision. The drug tones the blood vessels that provide blood supply to the eyes, activates metabolic processes, regenerates the quality of the visual pigment. The visual acuity is returned to the patient by light and at twilight. The power of vision, lost with age, increases.

Produced in a solid tablet form: in the shell - for swallowing and not coated - for chewing.

Adult users are addressed to the Strix and Strix Forte, children under seven years old are Strix-Kids. Tablets are taken once a day during meals for one or two pieces, according to the instructions to the chosen form of their release, a two- or three-week course.

The eye drops are  Ai-Tee Ectoin. In our case, a version with a 0.5% content of the active substance is used. Absolutely natural, obtained from halophilic bacteria, existing only in a saline medium, water or soil, ectoin has the ability to bind the fat components of the tear fluid to water, thus changing its quality. The tear fluid acquires stability and preserves the moisture of the cornea much better, its protective properties are increased. Drops with ectoin are recognized as the most effective biological protector. In addition, they do not contain preservatives and are packaged in one-off mini-droppers, the contents of which should be used throughout the day. Bury from two to three times one by one, two or three drops in each eye.

When eliminating the computerized visual syndrome, physiotherapy is widely used:

• laser stimulation of the ciliary muscle - this method uses low-intensity laser radiation in the infrared range, which affects the ciliary body through the sclera of the eye, activating the microcirculation and, as a consequence, the metabolism in the tissues of the organ of vision;
• biomechanical stimulation of the eye muscle is carried out by means of vibration;
• electrostimulation of the muscles of the ciliary body is carried out with the help of a whole series of high-frequency pulses acting on the nerve endings, as a result of which passive muscle contraction occurs;
• bioresonance therapy - rhythmic stimulation by the light of the perceiving eye department.

In addition, there are various sets of exercises that are effective enough in the treatment and prevention of eye fatigue.

Alternative treatment

If it is already known that eye fatigue is caused not by organic pathologies or inflammatory process, the prescriptions of alternative medicine can help quickly restore the normal state of the eyes.

Express method of improving the eyes - tea leaves. Usually it is available both at home and at work. Wet in the brewing of black tea, two wadded discs, slightly press, lean back in the chair (at home - you can lie down) and put the compresses on the closed eyelids. Wait ten minutes and you can start working again. Used in the same way used tea bags.

Recipe for home use - make juice from potatoes, mix with flour and put tortillas on your eyes or soak in juice with scraps of gauze and make lotions. The ideal option - after 10-15 minutes rinse your face with lime or chamomile infusion, but cool water will do. This procedure only reduces the symptoms of fatigue, as well as refreshes the skin around the eyes and relieves swelling.

Puree from raw potatoes, wrapped in gauze gauzes, can be used to relieve visual fatigue. The procedure is similar, after it on the washed eyelids you need to apply a cream for the skin around the eyes.

A wonderful tool - compresses from a little warmed milk, cucumber circles or gruel from this vegetable, wrapped in a shred of gauze.

You can treat herbs with tired eyes using flowers of camomile and cornflower, fresh birch leaves (chopped leaves are poured for 10 hours with cold water), decoction of linden. Dry flowers are brewed according to instructions on the chemist's packaging. The prepared preparations are used in the form of compresses, simple and contrast, dividing the liquid into two parts and slightly heating one of them. You can simply wash their eyes or freeze in ice form, and every morning wipe a piece of ice, not only the eyes, but the whole face.

To external means it is necessary to add and internal - to lean on products with a high content of vitamins A and C. Do gymnastics for the eyes, and most importantly - let the eyes rest and watch the general condition of our body, which is reflected in our eyes, as in a mirror.

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Homeopathy

For exhausted eyes, you can choose homeopathic remedies. Having made a decision to seek help from a homeopath, it is necessary to undergo examination and to reveal organic pathologies of vision. A specialist in this field of medicine should know what kind of ailment to fight.

In classical homeopathy for the treatment of asthenopia are used: Gelsemium (yellow jasmine), Euphrasia (eye), Fagopirum (buckwheat), Ruta graveolens (rue fragrant), Senega (sudaga senaga) and many others. Virtually any drug can have a beneficial effect on vision, if it corresponds to the type of patient.

In pharmacies, you can find complex homeopathic remedies to eliminate eye fatigue and the accompanying symptoms.

Okulochel  - homeopathic drops, addressed to people whose activities are associated with high visual stress, causing irritation, tearing anomalies, doubling, blurred vision. The use of drops contributes to the normalization of trophism of the vessels and the tone of the muscles of the eye. The effect of the drug is determined by its composition:

Euphrasia (eye) - this plant is used in the treatment of ophthalmologic pathologies, eliminates the symptoms of asthenopia ("sand in the eyes", lachrymation, dryness, photophobia), arrest the associated infection and inflammation.

Cochlear (horseradish) - irritation, redness, a feeling of discomfort in the eyes.

Pilocarpus yaborandi - overload on the eyes, expressed in severe fatigue, pain and burning, visual disorders.

Echinacea - an immunostimulant and an antioxidant, which also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Bury in the eye three times a day for two drops.

Oculus EDAS-108  - oral drops to eliminate asthenopia, and also - an associated infection.

The composition of this homeopathic preparation echoes the composition of the previous one:

Ruta fragrant - discomfort and burning under the light from an artificial source; shroud, fly or rainbow before the eyes; lacrimation, mainly in the open air; disorders of accommodation and other symptoms of visual fatigue.

Euphrasia (eye) - this plant is used in the treatment of ophthalmologic pathologies, eliminates asthenopia symptoms (sand in the eyes, lacrimation, dryness, photophobia), arrest the associated infection and inflammation.

Echinacea - an immunostimulant and an antioxidant, which also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Pour five drops into a teaspoon with water or a piece of sugar and take it three times a day at regular intervals, regardless of the meal.

DreamTeam MagicEye ™ - a new revolutionary invention of Russian pharmaceuticals, the drug is positioned as homeopathic, although its only active substance is sterile water, with the so-called "matrix of healthy eyes" embedded in its molecules. Intellectual droplets, when hit in the eye, find pathological changes in their cells and correct defects by means of information read from the matrix.

Surgery

By itself, visual computer syndrome is not considered as a disease of the eye and surgical intervention does not require, however, it can aggravate the already existing anomalies of refraction or refraction of the light beam in the eye.

Most often, surgery is performed to correct myopia (nearsightedness). The most modern and gentle method, which preserves the anatomy of the corneal layers, and also effectively corrects visual defects, is laser keratomileusis. The operation is seamless, performed under the control of a computer program, the recovery period is minimal - it is carried out on an outpatient basis and the patient can read, write, draw and watch TV without glasses in the evening of the same day. Laser surgery is also used when correcting astigmatism and farsightedness.

If the patient is unable to perform the above-described operation for any reason and has natural accommodation, the recommended operation in this case will be the implantation of a positive or negative intraocular lens without removal of the lens. With the loss of natural accommodation replace the lens with an artificial lens of the required optical power. After these operations, the patient needs glasses to consider closely located small objects - reading, writing, sewing, and the like.

Prevention

The arrangement of the workplace must comply with the rules of ergonomics, in which everything is taken into account: from optimal lighting and distances to the monitor, keyboard and printed sources to an elementally convenient working posture.

When choosing a monitor, it is preferable to use a liquid crystal display, with a diagonal and resolution corresponding to the tasks assigned. For work it is not bad to get glasses with an anti-reflective coating.

It is necessary to observe a rational mode of the working day - to do frequent (every 20-30 minutes) breaks, during which you can do a little gymnastics for the eyes: blink, make rotational movements with your eyes, stand up and look out of the window, then look at the closely located object, move , stretching the musculature of the neck, back, limbs.

People who spend eight hours or more behind the monitor are advised to perform eyelid massage and cleansing procedures every day with eye gel, warm compresses with a special eye lotion. You can use for these purposes broths and infusions of medicinal plants.

According to the research data, computer visual syndrome develops in most cases in people with uncorrected refractive defects and the presence of systemic chronic diseases. Therefore, intending to closely connect their lives with work on the computer, it is recommended to pass an ophthalmological examination, and, if necessary, consult with other specialists.

Forecast

This visual impairment brings considerable discomfort, however, does not represent a serious threat to human health and life.

Timely preventive measures taken to correct conditions and working conditions in most cases help to completely eliminate the symptoms of computer visual syndrome and prevent the development of myopia.

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