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Healthy Home
'Eye' See You
by Diane H. Pitts, R.N., P.T. (Diane's bio)
IMPORTANT!: Please read our legal notice regarding this health column by clicking here.
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Tom, a computer operator, squinted and rubbed his eyes for the hundredth time. He pulled his glasses off, thinking he might need new ones.
"You never consider your eyes until they give you problems," he thought. "I better make an appointment."
So, like Tom, have you ignored your eyes until a problem strikes? When should eyes be checked and what are some practical considerations for eyecare?
Checking Those Eyes
Tom followed through with his appointment. While there, he learned information which affected his entire family.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (Eye M.D. Association) announced in January, 2002 a strong stand on vision screening for children throughout pre-school years. Family physician and pediatric groups support this broadened policy.
Physicians in these groups recommend screening at the following intervals: shortly after birth, six months to a year, age three, and regular school vision screenings. Tom liked the idea that screening is cost-effective and sometimes catches serious problems early.
Teen Vision
Infants, toddlers, children, then teens! The teenagers in Tom's family should know that until they reach their early 20s, their eyes will let in much more damaging light than older eyes. Sunglasses to block ultraviolet light are a must! Watch out for those tanning lamps!
Tom's health care provider reminded him that people under the age of 25 are more at risk for a sports-related eye injury. In fact, over 70% of total eye injuries fall into that group. Maybe protective gear wasn't such a bad idea for that basketball player!
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
Now, back to Tom. Although his general vision screening appeared fine, he still reported symptoms of eyestrain, headaches, and dry eyes. When questioned, he admitted being sensitive to light and recalled pain in his neck and shoulders.
"You may have something called computer vision syndrome(CVS). Let me explain."
Tom's optometrist explained that long hours in front of the computer could contribute to his complaints. The optometrist suggested that adjustments to his computer monitor and workplace might be in order. Tom learned that many people complaining of irritated eyes simply do not blink enough. Consciously blinking more often, working in hourly breaks to rest one's eyes, and using eyedrops (lubricants) as needed are tips to help overcome the problem of irritated eyes.
Follow Through
Tom followed the advice of his health care provider. After making some adjustments to his monitor later that evening, he paused to play a game with his toddler.
"Peek-a-boo. I see you." Tom paused. "'Eye' see you. Yes, I do."
References
1. American Academy of Ophthalmology www.aao.org
2. American Optometric Association www.aoanet.org
3. www.allaboutvision.com
For Your Soul Consideration
It is so reassuring for children to know there is someone watching them. We need to know someone is on our side throughout life. God doesn't mind taking on the job.
"For from of old they have not heard nor perceived by ear, neither has the eye seen a God besides Thee, Who acts in behalf of the one who waits for Him." - Isaiah 64:4 (NAS)
Copyright 2002, Diane H. Pitts. All Rights Reserved. Used by permission.
THE CONTENT OF THE "HEALTHY HOME" COLUMN IS PRESENTED IN SUMMARY FORM, IS GENERAL IN NATURE, AND IS PROVIDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THE CONTENT IS NOT INTENDED IN ANY WAY TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR FACE-TO-FACE, IN-PERSON, PROFESSIONAL, MEDICAL, PSYCHIATRIC, OR PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTH CARE ADVICE. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF YOUR PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH CARE PROVIDER WITH ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE REGARDING A MEDICAL CONDITION, HEALTH DIAGNOSIS, OR TREATMENT. NEVER DISREGARD MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY IN SEEKING IT BECAUSE OF SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ IN THE "HEALTHY HOME" COLUMN. Please read our full legal notice.
| About Diane H. Pitts, R.N., P.T.: Diane Pitts has practiced in the fields of nursing and physical therapy for twenty-five years. She currently manages the education and escapades of three active boys in addition to pursuing an interest in writing. Healthy Home seeks to provide the reader with practical ways to maintain wholeness in body, mind, and soul. Contact her at healthyhomecol@earthlink.net. |
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