Tip of the Month - April

Coach Monika says…

Medical Alert: The Digital Eyes Syndrome

Optometrists are reporting a surge of ‘Digital Eyes Syndrome’ in younger children, adolescents, and young adults, which they have linked to the extensive use of electronic gadgets. “The severity varies, from people/ athletes who only get dry eyes in the winter to those who have dry eyes every day,” according to Dr. Matthew Gardiner, ophthalmologist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary.Swim coaches should be aware that complaints by swimmers of eye problems may not always be due to an imbalance of chemicals in the water and may be due to overexposure to electronics (among other possible causes). Swim coaches should always recommend getting an eye checkup to their athletes with complaints.Here are the ‘warning’ signs identified by professionals:

• Blurred vision

• Headaches

• Fatigue

• Tired eyes

• Dry eyes (burning eyes)

• Neck strain

Professionals recommend rising from the sitting and slouch position every hour to a) stretch the body; b) straighten posture; c) relax the head (drop forward to chin level); d) turn the neck, alternate looking over R and L shoulder – chin over shoulder; and e) give the eyes repeated ‘resting’ periods, squinting and opening wide, looking up and down.Artificial tears, warm compresses, eye massage, or prescription medications may ease your discomfort.