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- $Unique_ID{BRK01267}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Eye Damage From Reading in Poor Light: Just Another "Old Wive's Tale"?}
- $Subject{eyes vision poor light strain sense senses eye damage reading sight
- damaged eyestrain seeing see optical optic damaging read}
- $Volume{F-21}
- $Log{}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
-
-
- Eye Damage From Reading in Poor Light: Just Another "Old Wive's Tale"?
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-
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-
- QUESTION: My teenager refuses to work at his desk where there is a good study
- lamp. Instead he reads in the worst light and I am afraid he is going to
- permanently damage his sight. Is that true or is it just another "old wive's
- tale"?
-
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-
- ANSWER: Eyes do not get damaged from use. Proper lighting is more
- comfortable and excessive close work may tire the eyes but has not been proved
- to harm the eyes. Too much light, especially when it produces glare, can be
- even more uncomfortable. It's a good idea to encourage rest breaks to avoid
- fatigue and the so-called headaches of "eyestrain." If your youngster rubs
- his eyes, squints, holds the book in an unusual position, or tilts his head in
- an awkward position, it might mean that he is not seeing properly. An eye
- doctor can determine if the child needs glasses or has some other condition
- that needs attention. However, when there seems to be a perfect environment
- for study available that is not being used properly, it indicates that it is
- time you had a sit down with your son to find out just why he isn't using his
- desk. Some of the answers may surprise you, and the remedy for the situation
- may be simpler than you think.
-
- ----------------
-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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-