Computer vs. Floaters!

[KayyyEnn]

I've developed vision issues since working strenuous hours on computer. Hours have ranged from 8-12 1/2/day and even on the weekend. During that time, I was also a full time online college student, which added an extra 4+ hrs/day outside of work. Over a period of almost 2 months, I've developed dark floaters. Not severe, but enough to actually drive you a little insane especially when you're outside. The floaters seem to be worse in my left eye, but they've increased a little in my right. Sometimes I think I see strand like floaters, but I know there is one "Line-Like" disturbance that i notice in my left eye that seems to appear and disappear only when I'm working at computer (even in dim lighting) and when I'm outside or driving. I've been freaking out although I've had one  dilated exam that has confirmed that my retinas and blood vessels are fine, but the line has appeared weeks after that exam. I have had a sinus infection that i received a course of antibiotics for, but I think it has returned. My prior eye exam revealed that I had elevated intraocular pressure, but the optometrist assured me it was sinuses (hence the infection). However, now I feel like my eyes hurt, and are severely dry and irritated all the time. I am seeking a 2nd thorough exam in 2 weeks, but am a nervous wreck.  My questions are 1) Would excessive computer usage over the span of months cause all of these issues? 2) Any opinion on has my condition resulted from strenuous computer usage? 3) Does excessive computer usage have the capability of causing such damage? 4) Can your eyes get severely strained to the point where it becomes mandatory to take a LONG break from the computer (few weeks or maybe months)? 5) Should I look forward to the floaters possibly reducing in number or just continue to adapt. 6) What are ways to relax and relieve the stress of worrying about the floaters?

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

It can.  Also, a refractive error will cause a similar problem.

Dr. O.

[KayyyEnn]

Dr. O. Does dry eyes contribute to seeing small halo effects around lights at night and streaks coming from light sources (the lines of light that one notices from light bulbs)? This was something I noticed from time to time before all of the vision problems began suddenly, and I began to notice about a week ago that is more common. I don't believe it is cataracts or glaucoma because my peripheral vision is excellent and I don't notice any fading of colors. I think most of this is happening as a result of my increased stress and anxiety over my recent problems.

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

Prolonged near use of eye can cause myopia to progress.  This a problem with kids paying games on tablets.  I returned to graduate school to get an MBA and my refraction changed in two years from -1.75 in each eye to -3.25 and -4.25 and remained stable for the next 8 years until I got PRK.

I don't believe floaters can increase from prolonged computer use.

Dry eyes can worsen with computer use.  You should take breaks every few hours and use tears.

Stress reduction is difficult for some people.  Please look on the net for some suggestions.

Dr. O.