Dry eye problems
are very common. But did you know that computer screens, video display
terminals and even computer games can make dry eye problems even more
troubling?
Research about Dry Eyes & Computer
Screen Use
According to a
study published in the American
Journal of Ophthalmology, users of video display screens or computer
terminals are at greater risk for symptoms of dry eyes and dry eye disease
(DED). In this study a group of 672 young and middle-aged office workers who
used video display terminals (VDT) completed questionnaires and underwent dry
eye testing. Of the 672 workers, 76.5% had definite dry or probable dry eye
disease with the percentage being higher in woman than men and higher in office
workers over 30 years of age especially if they used computers more than 8
hours per day. Thus, DED is common among young to middle-aged VDT or computer
screen users.
It is
recommended that anyone using VDT or computer screens of any type for moderate
to long periods of time or even those who notice increased dryness or
grittiness should take steps to try and keep the surface of the eye moist and well
lubricated. This might include using artificial tears or lubricants, taking
breaks from the computer after 20 minutes or so of use and making sure to
remember to blink frequently if a computer screen is a daily event.
If you or someone you know has questions about
dry eyes or needs help for a dry eye problem to
schedule an appointment by calling us at 508-730-2020, or visiting Center for Sight or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver.
Center for Sight is conveniently
located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts
02720 for patients
from Massachusetts or Rhode Island.
