By Dr B.D. Verma , Ayurveda
Computer vision syndrome is a group of eye and vision-related problems that results from prolonged computer use. Many individuals experience eye discomfort and vision problems when viewing a computer screen for extended periods. The level of discomfort appears to increase with the amount of computer use.There are several different things that can lead to eyestrain symptoms. When the muscle inside of the eye that controls focusing is overworked, symptoms can occur .In many cases, these symptoms will not start immediately, but only after several hours of work.
What Causes Computer Vision Syndrome?
- Lighting in the room
- Distance from the screen
- Glare on the screen
- Seating posture
- The angle of your head
- Not to mention any existing vision problems
- One or all of these may combine to cause an uncomfortable amount of strain on your eyes.
Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome-
The most common symptoms associated with Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) are…
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Dry eyes
- Red eyes
- Irritation
If these symptoms are not treated, they can have a real effect on your work performance
Since display devices are rather important in the world today, it is a given that CVS is a fairly common condition. Ayurveda may be a go to discipline for CVS, given the minimal side effect.
Ayurvedic treatment largely focuses on eye exercises and taking break from viewing the screen. Various medicines like Aschotana, Seka, Pindi, Bidalaka followed by Nasya and Tarpana as well as outward medicines which are prescribed to rejuvenate and strengthen the eye. Judicious use over complete abstinence is advised. Other than this, washing the eye with milk and tender coconut water is also advised.
Ayurvedic Home Remedies for computer vision syndrome:
- Triphala for CVS: 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder or 1 Triphala capsule at night along with a teaspoon of honey and 5 drops of ghee is a good remedy for CVS.
- Amla – Indian gooseberry for CVS: Amla, being rich in anti oxidants is one of the very useful herbs for eye care.
- Moisturising eye drops: Such as Isotine eye drops, Ophthacare eye drops etc can be used to reduce irritation and to improve moisture. But these should only be used after consulting a doctor.
- Usage of Special glasses: The special glasses prescribed by the eye specialists help to prevent the problems related to the focus and eye strain.
Contribution of Ayurvedic therapies in CVS:
Ayurveda explains several therapies to reduce eye strain and fatigue with easy to follow procedures. The important therapies are –
- Tarpana: The special medicated ghee of choice (like Triphala ghrita,Maha triphala ghrita,Jeevantyadi ghrita,Amalaka ghrita,Yashti ghrita etc) according to the condition and stage of the illness is filled inside the well constructed around the eye ball and retained for 5-10 minutes.
- Putapaka Awarasa: Like the above procedure, the medicated fresh-juice obtained on sudation (putapaka method) by the drugs like Agasthya, Eranda etc is filled.
- Aschotana: The medicated fresh juice, processed ghee etc are instilled to the eyes in the dose of 1-2 drops.
- Seka: Pouring of soothening decoctions or fresh juices will help to relieve the fatigue and strain caused in CVS.
- Pindi: The medicated paste applied over the closed eyes also have significant benefit in CVS.
In all these cases, the condition, status, doshic dominance etc are assessed by trained physician and then only procedure is undertaken.