The modern world is tough on our eyes. Increased solar radiation, air pollution, computer use, fluorescent lights, highly processed junk foods and some prescription medications are a few of the contributing factors that impact vision and general eye health.

“It’s incredible how eye complaints have increased in recent years due to environmental and dietary factors,” Michael Solomon said, Medical Director of The Eye Center at Valley Medical Center.

Fluorescent lights are common in the workplace and increasingly used in homes to save energy, but they flicker and can cause eye fatigue. Similarly, the varying light intensities on our computer screens are hard for eyes to process continuously and can cause headaches and impaired vision due to strain.

“Many of us now spend time in front of a computer looking at the screen without blinking as much as we should,” Solomon said.

A normal “blink rate” is roughly 18 blinks per minute. Studies show that while looking at a computer screen, most of us blink less than half that. As a result our eyes can dry out, making them sensitive and prone to disorders such as the increasingly prevalent Dry Eye Syndrome.

Some prescription medications contribute to dry and scratchy eyes. Antihistamines, diuretics and antidepressants can also dry out body membranes, including the eyes.

So how do you protect your eyes against these modern assailants?

To address problems related to computer use, Solomon suggested rearranging lighting around your workstation, including removing or turning off fluorescent overhead lights. Also, take occasional breaks, remember to blink, and look away from your computer monitor.

Dry Eye Syndrome can be treated in several ways. For relief of mild dry or scratchy eyes, over-the-counter preservative-free eye drops and flaxseed oil can help. For more moderate and severe cases, topical ocular prescription medications are available. Tiny plugs can also be inserted into the upper or lower puncta—the small openings at the inner corners of our eyes through which tears drain away. Punctal plugs are inserted during a painless, outpatient procedure and can provide significant relief.

A good overall diet with a lot of hydration (water, water, water!) can help Dry Eye Syndrome and preserve general eye health. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables and some multivitamins are a great source of anti-oxidants. Other eye-healthy foods include seeds, nuts, oily fishes such as salmon and sardines, and supplements including lutein, zeaxanthin, fish oil and alpha and beta carotenes.

Last but not lease: wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from potentially harmful solar radiation.

For help with any eye discomfort, talk with your ophthalmologist. He or she can evaluate the host of factors that could be causing the problem, and help you find relief.

Comprehensive eye care is available at The Eye Center at Valley Medical Center.

For more information call 425-656-5345.