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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there health affects to staring at a computer screen?

Some of the more common complaints associated with long hours of computer screen exposure include headaches, dry eye syndrome, blurry vision, common eyestrain as well as physical ailments such as shoulder pain, neck pain in back pain. In addition, many people also report a difficulty in focusing at a distance after spending hours in front of a computer screen. One of the simplest and most obvious ways to reduce the effects of eyestrain caused by computer screens is to simply take a break. Pausing every 20 min. or so to rest the eyes by simply looking away into the distance is an effective strategy that can alleviate eyestrain. Most importantly, taking a break every few hours and getting away from the computer is another basic and highly effective way to reduce eyestrain.

Dry eye syndrome is another common byproduct of excessive exposure to computer screens. An easy and effective strategy for dealing with this type of dry eye condition is to simply blink more. Increased blinking frequency helps to moisturize and lubricate the eyes. Another important consideration with regard to reducing the negative effects of computer screen eyestrain is to reduce glare. Adjusting artificial lighting and even window shades can greatly reduce glare on the screen that will ultimately reduce eyestrain.

Finally, it is always a good idea to ensure that contact lens prescriptions and eyeglass prescriptions are up to date. This will further help to alleviate any eyestrain associated with long hours of computer work. Other simple strategies include choosing a comfortable chair and positioning the computer screen so that eyes are in a position that is level with the top of the monitor. By simply looking down at the computer screen, eyestrain can be alleviated. Contact Arizona Eye Center today to learn more about simple common sense strategies designed to improve overall levels of eye health.

Causes of Dry Eyes

Dry eyes occur when your eyes are unable to produce enough tears or produce poor quality tears. There are several causes of dry eyes, including:

Age: As we get older, the production of tears in our eyes tends to decrease, which can lead to dry eyes.

Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, thyroid disorders, and Sjogren's syndrome can cause dry eyes.

Medications: Certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications can cause dry eyes as a side effect.

Environmental factors: Exposure to wind, smoke, dry air, and air conditioning can cause evaporation of tears and lead to dry eyes.

Contact lenses: Wearing contact lenses for a long period of time can cause dry eyes due to decreased oxygen supply to the eyes.

Eye surgeries: Certain eye surgeries, such as LASIK or cataract surgery, can cause temporary dry eyes.

Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes during menopause or pregnancy can lead to decreased tear production and cause dry eyes.

It is important to see an eye doctor if you experience symptoms of dry eyes, as they can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Why are my eyes itchy?

Itchy eyes can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Allergies: Allergies to pollen, dust, pet dander, and other airborne irritants can cause itchy eyes.

Eye infections: Bacterial or viral infections of the eye, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), can cause itching, as well as redness and discharge.

Dry eyes: Dry eyes can cause a variety of symptoms, including itching, as the lack of moisture can cause irritation and inflammation.

Contact lens use: Wearing contact lenses for a long time or using contacts that don't fit properly can cause itchy eyes.

Environmental irritants: Exposure to smoke, pollution, or other environmental irritants can cause itchy eyes.

Eyelid inflammation: Inflammation of the eyelids, also known as blepharitis, can cause itching, redness, and irritation.

Eye strain: Prolonged use of digital devices or reading for long periods can cause eye strain, leading to itching and other symptoms.

It is important to see an eye doctor if you experience persistent or severe symptoms of itchy eyes, as they can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Understanding Double Vision

Double vision, also known as diplopia, can be caused by several underlying conditions, including:

Eye muscle problems: Weakness or paralysis of the muscles that control eye movements can cause double vision. This can be due to neurological conditions, trauma, or muscle disorders such as myasthenia gravis.

Refractive errors: Refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism can cause "double vision", particularly if only one eye is affected.

Cataracts: Cataracts can cause double vision in one eye, particularly if the cataract is large and obstructing the visual pathway.

Corneal problems: Conditions that affect the cornea, such as corneal scarring or irregularities, can cause double vision.

Neurological conditions: Various neurological conditions, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or brain tumors, can affect the nerves or brain centers responsible for controlling eye movements and cause double vision.

Trauma: Head injuries or trauma to the eye can cause double vision.

Diabetes: People with diabetes are at increased risk of developing nerve damage, which can affect eye movements and cause double vision.

It is important to see a doctor if you experience persistent or sudden onset of double vision, as this can be a sign of a serious underlying condition that requires prompt treatment.

Reasonings for Red Eyes

ed eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, or other environmental irritants can cause redness and itching in the eyes.

Eye infections: Bacterial or viral infections of the eye, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), can cause redness, itching, and discharge.

Dry eyes: Chronic dryness of the eyes can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to redness.

Eye strain: Prolonged use of digital devices or reading for long periods can cause eye strain, leading to redness and discomfort.

Foreign object: A foreign object in the eye can cause redness and discomfort, particularly if it is lodged under the eyelid.

Contact lenses: Wearing contact lenses for a long time or using contacts that don't fit properly can cause redness and irritation in the eyes.

Trauma: An injury to the eye, such as a scratch or blunt trauma, can cause redness and swelling.

Environmental factors: Exposure to smoke, pollution, or other environmental irritants can cause redness in the eyes.

It is important to see an eye doctor if you experience persistent or severe symptoms of red eyes, as they can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.

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