Many contact lens wearers experience blurry vision, especially when focusing on a computer screen. This common and often frustrating issue can disrupt daily activities. While contacts offer clear vision for many tasks, the unique demands of screen-based work can lead to visual discomfort and temporary blurriness.
Understanding Why Vision Blurs
Prolonged computer use can lead to blurry vision due to several physiological responses. One primary cause is Digital Eye Strain (DES), also known as Computer Vision Syndrome. This condition results from extended screen time, causing symptoms like eye fatigue, headaches, and blurred vision. Eyes work harder to maintain focus on digital screens, which often display less defined text and reduced contrast compared to print.
A reduced blink rate while staring at screens is another contributing factor. Less frequent blinking causes the tear film, which lubricates the eye, to evaporate more quickly, leading to dry eyes and blurriness. The continuous near-focus required for screen work also strains eye muscles, causing focusing fatigue. Environmental elements like improper lighting, screen glare, or incorrect monitor distance can further exacerbate these symptoms.
How Contacts Contribute to Blurry Vision
Contact lenses can contribute to or worsen blurry vision during computer use. An incorrect or outdated prescription is a frequent cause; it may not be optimal for computer viewing distance or visual acuity may have changed. Wearing inaccurate lenses forces the eyes to work harder, leading to strain and blurred vision.
Contact lenses can also exacerbate dry eye symptoms, especially during prolonged screen time. Lenses absorb moisture from the tear film, accelerating evaporation. The lens material, such as those with higher water content, can draw more moisture from the eye, worsening dryness. Additionally, debris can accumulate on lenses over time, obscuring vision and making them feel cloudy or hazy.
An improper lens fit can also cause blurry vision, as poorly fitting lenses may move excessively or fail to center, leading to fluctuating vision or discomfort. Lenses that are too tight restrict oxygen flow to the cornea, while loose lenses create friction. Overwearing lenses beyond their recommended schedule can reduce oxygen supply to the cornea, leading to hazy vision and an increased risk of complications like corneal inflammation or infection.
Strategies for Clear Vision
Specific strategies can help alleviate blurry vision when using computers with contact lenses. The 20-20-20 rule is recommended: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice helps relax eye muscles and reduces strain from sustained near-focus work. Taking regular, short breaks from the screen allows eyes to rest and refocus, improving comfort.
Optimizing your workstation setup is another effective measure. Position your monitor an arm’s length away, with the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level to promote a downward gaze. Adjusting screen brightness to match the surrounding room lighting and minimizing glare from overhead lights or windows can reduce eye strain. Using anti-glare screen filters can also be beneficial.
Consciously blinking more frequently and ensuring adequate hydration helps maintain a stable tear film. Full, deliberate blinks spread tears evenly across the eye surface, preventing dryness. Proper contact lens care is important: always follow cleaning instructions, replace lenses as recommended, and consider using rewetting drops if advised by an eye care professional. Regular eye examinations ensure your contact lens prescription is current and monitor overall eye health.
When Professional Advice is Needed
If blurry vision or discomfort persists despite these strategies, seek advice from an eye care professional. Persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying issue requiring professional assessment. Continued blurriness, discomfort, or eye strain could point to a need for a prescription adjustment, a different type of contact lens, or further investigation into ocular health.
A professional evaluation is also recommended for worsening or new symptoms such as severe eye pain, redness, unusual discharge, or sudden changes in vision. These signs can indicate more serious conditions that require timely medical attention. Routine comprehensive eye exams are vital for maintaining eye health, ensuring the correct contact lens prescription, and detecting any potential issues early.