Struggle Not to Squint

The problem isn't your eyes, or your PC. The problem is way too many software applications and web sites ignore the basics of modern software usability. In other words, they suck. Jacob Nielsen at http://www.useit.com/alertbox/ has been doing a great job researching and defining how to make desktop and web based apps usable and readable. I wonder if the IT departments out there are listening?

I have "dry eye syndrome" and it's only exacerbated by staring at a computer screen all day. While this won't totally solve your problem, I suggest going to a drug store and looking in the eye drop aisle. I wear contact lenses and they have "Refresh Contacts" that is specifically for dry eye relief for contact lens wearers. It works way better than rewetting drops. For those who don't wear contacts, I've seen another eye drop that is specifically for those who suffer from dry eyes from computer use (I don't know how it's different from other eye drops - this may just be smart marketing) but it might be worth a try. Another brand that is pretty good is Systane. I love that stuff. Bottom line...find some eye drops that are lubricating, but not too goopy and use them 3-4 times during the day. It works wonders.

This problem isn't lost on the contact lens companies, either. They have recently rolled out new lenses that help with the dryness, and new product launches are on the way. I have recently switched over to a Proclear lens, and have experienced dramatic improvement in wearablility. I used to have to take my lenses out by late afternoon; now, I wear them until bedtime. I have also tried an Accuvue Hydra brand without much success, but they are also updating and rolling out new products all the time. So if dryness is a problem for you, you do have to try ALL the available "hydrating" lenses to find the pair that works the best for you. To each his own. Your optician can usually pass along freebies to try for a week or so until you come across a brand that works for you.

For chronic dry eye you have a few choices... 1) The drop route...great products include Restasis and Refresh Tears 2) An Ophthalmologist can insert punctal plugs...(slows the tear drainage system in your eyes) Plugs will work...are reversible...and if you have a medical need...can be covered by insurnace.

Try Acuvue Oasys...they are the only ones I can use when staring bug-eyed at my computer. It's hopeless for me and dailies which like to just saran-wrap my eyes!