We have never spent so many hours staring at screens as we do today. Computers, smartphones, and tablets have become indispensable tools for working, studying, communicating, and even relaxing. However, this intensive use comes at a silent cost: computer vision syndrome, a set of symptoms that includes eye strain, burning, blurred vision, headaches, and dry eyes. This is not a minor or temporary problem—it is, in fact, an eye epidemic of the 21st century. 

The problem is not only the exposure time, but above all the way we use screens: inadequate distance, incorrect posture, excessive accommodation effort, and, very often, visual correction that is poorly adjusted to the demands of digital work. 

But is this syndrome inevitable?

The answer is clear: no. Computer vision syndrome rarely results solely from "excessive screen use." In most cases, there is an underlying eye problem that aggravates the symptoms. Among the most common are the need for undiagnosed or inadequate optical correction, dry eye, eyelid inflammation, changes in binocular vision, accommodation problems, persistent allergic conjunctivitis, or other conditions that interfere with the quality of vision.

Seeing well is not the same as seeing correctly on the computer

A very common—and mistaken—idea is that “seeing well in the distance” means having adequate vision for all tasks. Working with screens occurs at specific distances: generally between 50 and 70 cm for desktop and laptop computers, and between 30 and 40 cm for smartphones and tablets.

If the optical correction is not adapted to these distances, the eyes are forced to make a continuous effort, which quickly leads to symptoms. The scientific evidence is clear: correction appropriate to age and working distance is essential to prevent eye strain and dry eye in screen users.

This applies to all refractive conditions—myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia—and not just to those who "see poorly." Even young adults and pre-presbyopes with good distance vision can benefit from minor corrections that significantly reduce accommodative effort during digital work. For presbyopes (usually from the age of 40–45), the choice of lens type becomes even more critical.

Not all lenses are created equal

For those who already need glasses for near vision, there are several options: conventional progressive lenses, occupational lenses (or progressive computer lenses), and single vision lenses for near vision. The choice should not be based solely on overall comfort, but above all on the type of tasks performed and the usual distance from screens.

Conventional progressive lenses are designed to provide distance, intermediate, and near vision, but their intermediate zone—essential for computer use—is relatively limited. For those who spend many hours in front of a desktop computer, this can lead to compensatory neck postures and increased visual fatigue.

In these cases, occupational lenses are superior in reducing the symptoms of computer vision syndrome in presbyopes, especially during prolonged use. These lenses facilitate natural focusing at typical working distances (50–70 cm), reducing eye strain and discomfort. However, when the working distance is shorter, between 30 and 40 cm, single vision lenses for near vision may be the most suitable option.

Ergonomics: the monitor must also help

Visual correction alone is not enough. Workplace ergonomics play a key role. Placing the monitor at eye level can cause neck pain, headaches, and aggravate dry eyes. In fact, the correct monitor height should be adjusted according to the type of lenses used, because each lens requires a specific viewing angle—looking straight ahead, slightly downward, or more sharply downward. Improper adjustment can cause eye strain, neck pain, and headaches.

The general rule is simple, but often ignored: the screen should be slightly below eye level and at the correct distance—50 to 70 cm for computers and 30 to 40 cm for mobile devices. When this relationship between glasses and ergonomics is not respected, even the best prescription can fail. On the contrary, when visual correction and positioning work together, symptoms are significantly reduced. Eye ergonomics is therefore not a single rule — it is an individual adaptation.

A simple but underappreciated prevention measure

Computer vision syndrome is not inevitable. In most cases, it does not require complex treatments, but rather an integrated approach: regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist and treatment of underlying pathological conditions; personalized prescriptions for working distances; simple ergonomic adjustments.