Computer eyestrain is just one symptom of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) which the American Optometric Association defines as "the complex of eye and vision problems related to near work which are experienced during or related to computer use". As the term "syndrome" implies, the condition is characterised by a cluster of associated symptoms, including headaches, neck and shoulder pain, dry or irritated eyes and blurred vision.

One of the major contributory factors to computer eyestrain is excessively bright light which can come in from outside or from interior lighting. External light should be eliminated by drawing blinds or drapes. Interior lighting should be half that used in most workplaces, with fewer and/or lower intensity bulbs offering an easy solution to the level of ambient lighting. Another aspect of excessive light causing eyestrain is glare from walls, together with reflections on the computer screen itself. The effect on the eyes is similar to that produced by snow blindness (photokeratitis) where the eyes also become red and irritated.