I work at a computer for very long hours every day and suffer very bad eye strain. Can you help?

Eyestrain from working at a computer for long hours is a very common problem. The symptoms of eyestrain vary. Some people suffer a dull, aching sensation around and behind the eyes that may develop into a headache. Focusing the eyes can sometimes be difficult. Occasionally eyesight might become blurred and the eyes may start to get red. The best advice is to try to reduce starring at a screen for extended periods, even if it means taking regular breaks. Your employer should be sympathetic. Try to break up tasks so that your eyes focus on something in the distance for a few minutes.

If you suddenly get severe pain accompanied by visual disturbance and nausea or vomiting, seek professional help immediately to rule out glaucoma. In fact it is best to contact your health care practitioner anyway for a general check up to make sure there you are not suffering from any kind of other eye conditions. If tests are normal, try out some supplements and herbs, which should strengthen and refresh the eyes.

Vitamin A supplements are recommended for all eye conditions. Try to introduce more foods into the diet that contain this vitamin, such as carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, boiled turnip greens and Swiss chard. Also take a multi-vitamin B supplement. The herb eyebright is traditionally used for eye conditions. It can be taken as a tea, in capsule form, tincture or eye wash. The tincture Goldernseal is also useful but should be taken in moderation and for no longer than a week at a time. Do not take this herb if you are pregnant.

In the evenings, relax in a dim room and apply an eye compress soaked in eyebright or apply cold cucumber slices. Adequate sleep is essential, as fatigue will promote eye strain. Blurred vision or red itchy eyes may be symptoms of a food or pollen allergy. Get tested for allergies. If positive, it will be important that you go on a specific diet related to the allergy detected.

Always consult your GP before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of this article are for information purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions. If you would like a question covered, contact The Clinic of Complementary and Natural Medicine, Kiltartan House, Forster St., Galway on 091- 568804.

Dr H Bhatti is the President of the Association of Naturopathic Practitioners and can be contacted at his clinics at Kiltartan House, Forster Street, Galway on 091-568804 or at The Village Nursing Care Centre, Ballygarriff, Craughwell on 091-777700.

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