Does extended computer usage cause lattice degeneration/RD?

[sga822]

Hello everybody.

I have been diagnosed with lattice degeneration and retinal holes in both eyes, around the same area. I am a computer programmer and my job demands extended periods of time in front of a computer. I have Myopia since I was 16. It's about 0.75. I underwent argon laser surgery about one month ago.

I would like to know if a career change is advisable given this problem. Also, cold this all have been caused by the extended periods of time I have spent in front of a computer?

Thank you.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

You're welcome
JCH MD

[sga822]

Thank you very much again, Dr. Hagan. I'm glad to hear that: I do most of the things you mention to take good care of my retina. Let's see how this condition evolves.

Thank you very much for your invaluable answers.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

I have lattice as does 4-7% of the general population. It is not caused by anything you do but by local conditions in the eye.

To take care of your retina take care of your self: good diet, don't smoke, exercise, don't get obese, protect your eye and skin for excessive sunlight, eat a great diet, don't drink to excess, don't do drugs, and avoid injury to your eyes.

JCH MD

[sga822]

Thank you for your really quick reply Dr. Hagan. And sorry for my late post. It's just that I required new surgery because a new hole had formed in a non-lattice area of my left eye.


So,computer usage does not worsen my condition. So what is the best thing to do to take good care of one's retina? Is there any other action that causes stress to it? (for example, after the last surgery, three days ago, I notice that focusing objects that are close causes me pain, could it be this?)

Thank you again.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Hang on to your job if you enjoy it.   Lattice never due to computer work.   Computer work can cause eye fatigue   (just like walking or standing for a long time makes the legs tired but does not damage the legs) and can aggravate dry eyes.

JCH MD