Low Vision News March 2011

How to Protect Your Eyes Against Computer Vision Syndrome

Most of us use the computer a few hours a day or more. Intense computer viewing may result in eye symptoms known as computer vision syndrome (CVS).

While CVS will not result in permanent eye damage, it can cause headaches, blurriness, dry eye, sensitivity to glare and distorted color perception. “CVS is being recognized as a consequence of prolonged viewing on a computer involving generated text as well as images,” said Dr. Bruce Rosenthal, Chief of Low Vision Programs at Lighthouse International. Individuals who are experiencing visual fatigue and other vision related symptoms should try to take breaks from the computer every 15 to 20 minutes. If possible, try to limit your computer use to five or six hours a day.

If symptoms still persist, you should consult with an eye doctor -- optometrist or ophthalmologist – as you may need a dedicated pair of computer glasses. “A progressive lens that functions as a distance, reading and computer pair of glasses may help,” said Dr. Rosenthal. “There may also be the need for glare control, which may include an anti-glare coating for the lenses.”

For more information on computer vision syndrome, visit Lighthouse.org.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration Clue Found

Researchers from the University of Kentucky have found a potential breakthrough in figuring out one of the leading causes of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study, which was published in the journal Nature, found that an enzyme known as DICER1 was less active in the retina of people with dry AMD. “This causes the accumulation of Alu RNA in the retina and effectively begins to destroy the macula if not removed,” said Dr. Bruce Rosenthal, Chief of Low Vision Programs at Lighthouse International. “The end result, if not stopped, is the dry or atrophic form of macular degeneration, which affects almost 85 to 90 percent of people diagnosed with AMD.”

While this discovery will not help patients immediately, it may open the doors to new treatments in the future. “It is hoped that clinical trials can begin in humans at the end of the year to validate whether vision can be retained,” said Dr. Rosenthal.

For more information on AMD, visit Lighthouse.org.

Every month, Lighthouse International’s staff of industry leading experts will answer your vision related questions. Visit the Ask the Expert form to submit your questions for next month!

Q: I am concerned because my bottom eye lid has come away from my eye. What should I do?
A: You should be evaluated by an eye doctor to prevent permanent damage to your eyes. It appears as well that you have an “ectropian,” in which the lower eyelid drops down. This can result in irritation to your eye. Read on for the answer to this question and the rest of March’s Ask the Expert selections.

Lighthouse Store Product of the Month

Our March product of the month is the large print address book by BigType. This spiral-bound, 8” X 9.5” book has large, 24-point type and wide spaced lines for large writing and easy reading with space for over 500 entries!