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This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.
I recently learned that an estimated 80 million computer users across the country spend most of their day looking at a video display terminal or VDTs. Of that group, more than 40 percent suffer from computer vision syndrome. It’s a condition that causes headaches, blurred vision for both near-sighted and far-sighted patients, sore and tired eyes, difficulty refocusing and stiffness in the neck, back or shoulder.
As a computer user, I’ve often suffered some of these symptoms. And once I discovered that they are part of an actual condition, I wondered what could be done.
Well, Dr. Richard Hart, an optometrist who runs the Bridgerland Vision Center in Logan, told me research is currently underway. He said studies are being conducted to determine what effects this extended viewing of VDTs is having on our eyes.
For those reasons, Dr. Hart recently completed a seminar designed to offer eyecare professionals the latest information on how to assess the visual needs of the computer-using patient. The seminar focused on visual correction, posture, lighting and an evaluation of the patient’s working environment. Dr. Hart has taken the information he learned and now treats many patients who suffer from the syndrome. But he said that any patient with symptoms similar to those of computer vision syndrome should get a thorough eye health examination to make sure other factors such as diseases aren’t the cause.
Dr. Hart, who has practiced optometry for 10 years, has also completed training in what is known as low vision. Patients suffering from low vision cannot see well with their glasses or contact lenses due to disease, injury, birth defects or age. Dr. Hart told me there are no cures for the condition but many aids are available as well as training to allow those with impaired vision to increase their ability to do more easier.
Well, that’s good news. And it’s also good to know that Dr. Richard Hart of the Bridgerland Vision Center in Logan specializes in providing treatment for these conditions.
For Zions Bank, I’m Fred Ball. I’m speaking on business.
