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Healthwatch: Computer Vision Syndrome Complaints Growing

POSTED: 3:39 pm EDT March 17, 2008
UPDATED: 3:57 pm EDT March 17, 2008

The more time spent on computers, the more medical problems people seem to get from so much sitting and so much staring.

Complaints about "computer vision syndrome" or "CVS" are growing.

"I have seen some data to suggest that 90 percent of the people who just stare at a computer all day long will have some part of it," Dr. Kathleen Digre, an ophthalmologist, said.

Doctors said focusing continually on a computer screen triggers a whole host of complaints, including double and blurry vision and headaches.

Cari Megeath, a patient, said her symptoms began as a sandy, grainy feeling in the eyes.

"My eyes would feel tired and then I felt a burning sensation in my eyes, so I would have to keep blinking to try and get rid of the burning sensation," Megeath said.

People with dry eyes are more vulnerable to CVS.

One remedy is to lubricate the eyes with artificial tears.

"With this computer screen business, just looking away -- looking in the distance -- relaxing your eyes for a while, blinking -- consciously blinking frequently," Digre said.

In some cases, for people who are really sensitive, you can actually look at your own world through a pair of rose-colored glasses.

"It blocks out or filters out a certain wavelength of light, blue or green, that can be bothersome to some people," Patrick Shaw, an optician, said.

Doctors also said its important to have a correctly lighted work station, that includes the screen contrast of your computer, and anti-glare screens if needed.

Room lighting is also important.

If the problem persists, see a vision specialist.

Optometrists and ophthalmologists said they're are seeing more and more of this problem and they can prescribe glasses or other remedies to help.

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