#Middlebury
DEAR DR. ROACH: Would you mind providing some guidelines for preventing eye strain? I’m a graduate student, so I spend a lot of time reading, both from computer screens and from books. I will always need to read to get things done, but I’d also like my eyes to last me my whole life. – B.I.
ANSWER: We tend to spend a lot of time reading or in front of computer screens, and eye strain is very common. I think eye problems from excess screen time and reading fall into two categories: dry eyes and muscle strain.
Computer users in particular can get dry eyes, largely from decreased blinking. Unfortunately, “blink more” isn’t likely to be successful advice, so I recommend an eye lubricant, used periodically during computer work if you have any sense of eye fatigue or strain. If dry eyes are part of your problem, you will feel relief immediately, and you should use a drop in each eye every few hours.
Muscle strain comes from staring at one point of focus – your computer screen – for long periods of time. Also, many people tend to hold their shoulders and neck in an uncomfortable position during computer work or play. The solution is to get away from the computer for a while. I recommend getting up and pacing periodically, since prolonged sitting isn’t good for you.
Another option is the 20-20-20 rule (I haven’t been able to discover who made the rule, but I think it makes sense): Look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. This can help prevent fatigue to the ciliary muscles, the muscles of the eye. Some people, especially those who are nearing or past their 50th birthday, might benefit from very mild reading glasses when using the computer.
There is a science behind adjusting your workspace, lighting and monitor settings to reduce strain. There are apps to remind you to take breaks periodically and to change the color of your computer to make it easier on the eyes.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I have had nail fungus since 1985 in both my toenails and my fingernails. I was treated with oral Lamisil, but it did nothing for my big toe. I have been treated by skin and foot specialists, but the problem has continued progressively over the years. I am 80 years old, and it’s still there. Is there really any hope for cases like mine? – C.J.R.
ANSWER: Are you sure you really want the condition treated? The treatments have potential for real harm, even though it isn’t likely. If the issue is strictly cosmetic, I wouldn’t recommend treatment. If it’s for pain or because you have had skin or soft tissue infections in the area, then treatment is reasonable.
If you pursue treatment, get a culture done to be sure you know what you are treating. Sometimes what looks like a nail infection is really something else (psoriasis, eczema, lichen planus or others). Depending on what the culture shows, you might benefit from itraconazole, an oral antifungal agent.
Dr. Roach regrets he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu. To view and order health pamphlets, visit www.rbmamall.com, or write to Good Health, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.
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