Smart boards in school, late-night revision, endless mock tests, notes on one screen, and videos on another. Preparation for examinations is no longer confined to books. While this shift has made learning more accessible, it has also quietly triggered a growing problem: Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).
Computer Vision Syndrome refers to a group of eye and vision-related problems from extended use of digital screens (computers, tablets, and smartphones).
As examinations approach, eye doctors witness a sharp rise in students complaining of eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, dryness, and difficulty focusing. These symptoms, often dismissed as “normal exam stress,” are classic signs of Computer Vision Syndrome—a condition caused by prolonged and uninterrupted screen use.
Why exam season is especially hard on the eyes?
During exams, students tend to study for long hours without breaks, blink less while staring at screens, and ignore early warning signs. Poor posture, improper screen height, glare from lighting, and uncorrected vision further intensify discomfort. Over time, this visual fatigue can affect concentration, reading speed, and overall performance.
Eye care during exams does not require drastic measures—just smart habits:
- The 20-20-20 rule still works wonders: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This simple pause allows the eye muscles to relax, reset, and helps reduce fatigue.
- Blink more than you think you need to: Reduced blinking during screen use leads to dryness and irritation. Conscious blinking and lubricating eye drops can make long study hours (on screens) more comfortable.
- Posture matters: Sit upright with proper back support. Keep screens slightly below eye level and at a comfortable distance (at arm’s length distance, approximately 40-70 cms) to reduce eye, neck, and shoulder strain.
- Mind the light: Studying in poorly lit rooms or with excessive screen glare forces the eyes to work harder. Balanced lighting helps maintain visual comfort.
- Don’t skip eye check-ups: A routine eye examination before exams can detect refractive errors or dry eye issues that may otherwise worsen with prolonged screen exposure.
Protecting vision is part of exam preparation
Healthy eyes are not a luxury. They are an asset and an essential learning tool! By addressing Computer Vision Syndrome early and adopting eye-friendly study habits, students can improve comfort, focus, and productivity during one of the most stressful phases of their lives. Good vision is fundamental to effective learning. Take care of your eyes!
'Students often push through eye strain thinking it's just fatigue, but CVS can derail focus and performance. Incorporating simple habits, small breaks and check-ups make all the difference,' says Dr Aditi Parikh, consultant ophthalmologist at the GMR Varalakshmi campus, Visakhapatnam.
'Students often push through eye strain thinking it's just fatigue, but CVS can derail focus and performance. Incorporating simple habits, small breaks and check-ups make all the difference,' says Dr. Adeline Shona Lasrado, consultant ophthalmologist at the Kode Venkatadri Chowdary campus, Vijayawada.
'Students often push through eye strain thinking it's just fatigue, but CVS can derail focus and performance. Incorporating simple habits, small breaks and check-ups make all the difference,' says Dr Mounica Reddy, consultant ophthalmologist at the RajaSekhara Reddy campus, Kadapa.