One-Third of Oregonians Note Eye Strain Using Computer; Higher Among Youth.

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Oregonians average at least three hours per day in front of the screen, and one-third of them suffer eyes strain or discomfort because of it. Younger computer users, according to the survey conducted by Riley Research Associates and sponsored by the Oregon Optometric Physicians Association, note eye strain or discomfort at even higher rates.

Nearly half of all respondents said they use the computer at home, with one in seven using it equally at home and on the job or elsewhere. The phone survey, which questioned 396 randomly selected Oregonians in January, revealed one-third of respondents experienced eye strain or discomfort, including difficulty focusing or blurriness, while using the computer. Younger respondents, those ages 18-44, reported such symptoms more frequently than older respondents. Symptoms included headaches, double vision, excessive tears, dry eyes, eye pain and/or excessive blinking or squinting.

"As a society, we're spending more and more time in front of the computer screen," said Dr. Jim Hale, Corvallis optometric physician. "With that increased time comes increased risk of eye strain."

Dr. Jim Sheedy, dean of Pacific University College of Optometry and recognized expert on Computer Vision Syndrome, notes that, "Sometimes the symptoms are the result of weakness in the visual system, sometimes the result of environmental or workplace factors, and often a combination of both."

When asked what could be done to lessen or minimize eyestrain, most respondents said they could limit their time on the computer, get a larger screen, look away frequently or exercise their eyes. The Oregon Optometric Physician's Association recommends the following additional tips:

* Arrange your computer station to be ergonomically correct

* Adjust your chair so your feet are flat on the floor, your knees are at a 90 degree angle, your back is against the chair, and your arms are at a 45 degree angle

* Place your monitor approximately 20" from your eyes, with the center of the monitor just below your eyes. Make sure it is free from fingerprints and dust for clarity.

* If you have prescription glasses or contacts, wear them while using the computer

* Adjust the brightness of your monitor so it's not too bright or too dim

* Minimize monitor glare by using window treatments, dimmer switches and anti-glare screens 

* Eliminate bright lights or windows in the field of view

* Visit your eye doctor for a regular eye exam, and tell the doctor about the computer work you do

For more information on computer eye strain or how to curb it, visit www.oregonoptometry.org.