From a Computer Science Student to a UX Designer:
My Screen Journey and the Fight Against Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
I have had a lifelong relationship with screens. My first computer was purchased in 2008 and since then, I have never looked away. From studying computer science at the university and staring at tiny fonts and code lines to being a graphics designer and working long hours on projects for clients to owning the latest generations of smartphones year after year, accessing resources and working when the laptop is out, to now working as a UX designer and writer - my journey with screens has been long and intense. And I guess that goes for millions out there.
“We see this in the movies too where the smartest kids would always be the ones wearing a pair of clear glasses. So sometimes, wearing clear glasses for me was just to look the part.”
As a UX designer, I spend a significant portion of my day in front of a computer screen, conceptualizing designs and creating prototypes for clients. But, just like many others in this line of work, I have experienced the effects of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). It wasn’t until I started experiencing eye strain, headaches, fatigue, and even double vision that I realized the importance of protecting my eyes.
I used to wear clear glasses just as a fashion accessory, but I never knew I would join the league of people who would need them to read on a screen like my parents and millions of people around the world. In Nigeria, as a young teen, or adult, if you wore clear glasses you were called a geek or a nerd. We see this in the movies too where the smartest kids would always be the ones wearing a pair of clear glasses. So sometimes, wearing clear glasses for me was just to look the part. Which was cool then, but I never wanted to depend on one to see.
I was diagnosed with CVS in 2019, and it was then that I made the switch from fashion glasses to functional glasses. My optometrist recommended anti-blue ray glasses, which are designed to block the harmful blue light emitted by electronic screens. The glasses have been a great help in reducing the strain on my eyes and improving my overall eye comfort, but they do not make the CVS go away completely.
While the glasses have been a great help, I also have to make a conscious effort to reduce my screen time. I’ve learned that taking frequent breaks and using the 20-20-20 rule (looking away from the screen every 20 minutes for 20 seconds at something 20 feet away) can also help alleviate the symptoms of CVS. I also try to limit my screen time at night and make sure that I get enough sleep each night.
I’ve also made changes to my work environment, such as reducing the brightness on my computer screen and making sure that my monitor is positioned at the right height and angle, set up Eye Comfort Shield on my Samsung Galaxy. I also use a glare screen to minimize reflections on my screen. And, I make sure to take breaks and stretch regularly to prevent strain on my neck, shoulders, and back.
In addition to these changes, I’ve also incorporated other habits into my routine to promote eye health. This includes eating a well-balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and engaging in regular physical activity. Exercise not only helps to reduce the symptoms of CVS but also improves overall health and well-being.
It’s important to note that CVS is a condition that requires ongoing management. I can’t rely solely on my glasses to fix the problem. I have to be proactive and make changes to my habits and lifestyle to reduce the symptoms.
For other designers, I would advise taking care of your eyes from the beginning. Make sure that you have a good work environment that is ergonomically sound, and try to limit your screen time as much as possible. Make sure that you take regular breaks, use the 20-20-20 rule, and incorporate habits into your routine to promote overall eye health. By taking these steps, you can reduce the symptoms of CVS and ensure that you continue to have good vision and eye comfort for years to come.
