Dear Doctor,

I recently had an eye check-up and was told they are in good condition. What bothers me, however, is that my eyes get very itchy and teary in the course of the day as I use my computer. Need I worry? Claire

Dear Claire,

You have not stated your age. Most likely the way you have described the eye problem, it seems to be due to eye strain. After 40 years or so, the power of accommodation of eyes is reduced, hence a person has problem to see near objects clearly. This strains the eyes while reading at close quarters. Though he/she is able to read, it puts a strain on the eyes, causing watering and blurring of vision. To see better, a person tends to rub his eyes. This can potentially infect the eyes causing infection and inflammation. This can manifest as itching, redness, discharge and even pain in the eyes.

Working on the computer for a long time continuously also strains the eyes and can cause itchy and teary. Poorly lit conditions for reading or working with computers/mobiles, e.t.c. will also cause a similar problem. Diet deficient in vitamins A and B.complex can also cause weakness of eye muscles and visual problems manifesting as itchy and teary eyes.

One can have itching and teary eyes due to allergic conjunctivitis as well.

It is advisable to be careful with eyes while working on a computer. Ensure that adequate light falls on the screen. After working for an hour or two, close the eyes for few minutes with hands and give them a rest, or shut the computer and go out in open air for few minutes.

If your age is 40+, get eyes tested and take suitable eye glasses meant for close work. Diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains and nuts is also useful to keep eyes healthy.