Countless people spend their days - and much of their nights - sitting in front of a computer screen. When you spend so much time in front of a screen that it causes a tired, strained feeling in your eyes, you may be suffering from a condition known as computer vision syndrome (CVS). This problem is so common that is it said to affect somewhere between 64 and 90 per cent of office workers.

Other symptoms include eyestrain, headaches, ocular discomfort, dry eye, diplopia (double vision) or blurred vision. If you are suffering from eye problems in front of a screen, it may be because you require vision correction and need to get your eyes tested, regardless of time you spend with computers. In fact, some studies suggest that the eyestrain caused by spending so much time in front of a screen is similar to those found when viewing printed materials for the same lengths of time, suggesting it has more to do with the persistent use and close range. The major difference between screen use and printed materials is that the symptom of dry eye is more prevalent for screens as we tend to blink less often.

There are a number of ways you can reduce the effects of CVS during the day however. Remember to take regular breaks away from the screen, even if it's only to get up and talk to a colleague instead of emailing them. You can also check that your posture and monitor are correct, and don't forget to blink regularly. Lighting can also have an effect, so talk to management to see if this can also be improved for your eyes.