Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
Those of us who spend a lot of time in front of the monitor could suffer from a series of disorders collectively known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). Theses include chronic or short term problems like dry eye, eyestrain, neck or backache, light sensitivity etc. These are mainly caused by factors like improper environment, lighting conditions, working habits etc. Many of these symptoms are temporary and will improve after ceasing computer work. However, some individuals may continue to experience visual problems, such as such as blurred distance vision, even after computer work has stopped. If the causes of the problem are not addressed, the symptoms will recur, and perhaps worsen, with future computer use. Viewing a computer screen is different than reading a printed page. The monitor screen ‘cheats’ our eye by continuously refreshing the page.
Working at a computer requires a great deal of eye movement and eye focusing. The constant re-focusing effort stresses the eye muscle, leading to computer-related vision problems.
Guidelines to prevent or reduce eye and vision problems associated with CVS
- Have your vision checked regularly
- Limit the amount of time you continuously stare at the computer screen. Look away from the computer every 20 minutes for 20 seconds. Focus your eye on a far object. This will reduce the chances of developing eye-focusing problems.
- Blink your eyes frequently to avoid eye irritation and chances of developing dry eye. Blinking keeps the front surface of the eye moist.
- Check the height and arrangement of the computer. More comfortable computer viewing can be achieved when the eyes are looking downward i.e the computer screen should be 15 to 20 degrees below eye level
- Check for glare on the computer screen. Close any windows or turn off any bright luminous source.
The Dry Eye Syndrome
Artificial tears are probably the most common forms of treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome. These Eye drops are similar to your own tears. They lubricate the eyes and help maintain moisture. People suffering from dry eye are advised to regularly use artificial tear drops, wear sun glasses to protect from wind and anti-glare glasses to protect from very bright light.
It is better to be safe than sorry 
I have been a casualty of computer vision syndrome and I agree with your assessment from personal experience. I have recorded my insight from my experience in my book “Lessons I Learned the Hard Way – How to identify, minimize, manage and treat computer related health issue” it is available at http://www.strategicbookpublishing.com/LessonsILearnedtheHardWay.html. I believe it is a must read for all computer users. I have written this book to alert other computer users as well as their doctors to the health dangers inherent in computer use and explain solutions that I found worked to minimize and or manage the situation and how to identify symptoms. I can be reached at lessonsilearnedthehardway@gmail.com for further discussions. I wish you all the best.