Add one more "syndrome" to the list of things to worry about in our fast paced, high-tech society. According to the Minnesota Optometric Association (MOA), gamers can suffer from more than just virtual eye strain. Say hello to what is being called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).

Dr. G. John Lach, president of the MOA, says it can result from playing video games as well as from just using the PC. In a survey done by the American Optometric Association, 82 percent of Americans work at a computer, while another study found that 42 percent spend at least three hours in front of a PC or hand-held device. Dr. Lach says that constant constant eye movement and refocusing from so much use strains eye muscles and results in irritation, dryness, headaches, and an assortment of other maladies.

But there are things you can do to avoid these problems without giving up your favorite pastime.

• Be sure there isn't glare on the screen.
• Sit directly in front of the screen instead of at an angle.
• The screen should be below eye level, not above it.
• Take frequent breaks
• Occasionally get up and focus on as far-away object as possible.
• Follow the ten-ten rule: for every ten minutes of gaming, take a ten second break.