3D images may help detect eye disorders

3D films and games, rather than causing eye problems, may actually help in detecting undiagnosed eye disorders, eye experts say.

When viewing 3D, the images your eyes see are artificially separated by the screen or the glasses that you wear. For most people, both eyes have similar sight capabilities and work together to send signals that are turned into a clear image by the brain.

But some are unable to view 3D at all or may find it uncomfortable or tiring after prolonged viewing. This could be because their eyes are misaligned or have difficulty working together properly in order to perceive the depth that 3D viewing requires.

In a review of current research, published in the Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics Journal, an expert from Loughborough University said this may be a sign of a subtle eye disorder which could otherwise go unnoticed.

Although symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and double vision have been reported as a result of using 3D, there is no evidence of any long term harm caused by using 3D displays, the review found.

Dr Susan Blakeney, at the College of Optometrists, said: “There is no evidence to suggest that using 3D technology can damage the eyes.

"However, if you can’t see the 3D effect, or feel dizzy, tired or uncomfortable when viewing in 3D and have not had this problem investigated before, we recommend that you have an eye examination to check there is no underlying problem.

"As well as ensuring that your eyes are healthy your optometrist may be able to incorporate special lenses called prisms into your spectacles to help you see more comfortably.”

Dr Peter Howarth, a researcher into Visual Ergonomics at Loughborough University and author of the review, added: “Although people have reported experiencing symptoms when watching 3-D content, specifically headaches and eyestrain, there have been no studies which have detected any permanent damage caused as a result of 3D.

"The normal eye is adaptable enough to accept small 3-D stereoscopic content without stress. It is only if there are large, prolonged effects that people experience symptoms of eyestrain.”

This article was published on Fri 25 March 2011