New data on Computer Vision Syndrome - KNOE 8 News; KNOE-TV; KNOE.com |

WEST MONROE, La. (KNOE 8 News) - New data from the American Optometric Association reveals that too much, or too close, television can lead to Computer Vision Syndrome.

Symptoms of the disorder include eye strain, fatigue, blurred vision and neck pain. According to Dr. John Cooksey of Cooksey Vision and Cosmetic Center in Monroe, these are the same side effects a patient would have if they stared at anything for an extended time.

"Whether you are looking at a computer or a television, or just looking at a scenic lake or a painting...if you look at it too long your eyes can get tired," says Dr. Cooksey. "Your eyes get fatigued, like your legs get fatigued if you were walking, or your arms get fatigued if you were playing tennis, but there's no permanent damage."

Local video gamers say they sit in front of the television for hours each day and have only had minor issues with their eyes.

"Every gamer gets the bloodshot eye every now and then," says Reed Malek of Ruston, "Right now I'm pretty sure I have 20-20 vision and I've played video games my whole life."

The following are tips for keeping your eyes healthy when watching television:  take frequent visual breaks, keep your eyes hydrated, don't forget to blink, and visit an optometrist yearly.