3-D Movies Could Be Bad For Young Viewers

DENVER (CBS4)- Chances are you've seen a 3-D movie or played a 3-D video game lately. The latest must-have technology could be harming the eyes of children.

Young and old viewers report eye strain, headaches and even nausea. That's because the eyes are trying to focus the two different images that cause the 3-D effect.

"Nintendo says young children who are exposed to 3-D video games are at risk of developing lazy eye. That's because as kids grow and their eyes develop, they need clear pictures from each eye transmitted to the brain. What happens with 3-D is, there's a lot of trickery going on since it's all artificial, coming off a flat screen, so there is not true depth perception," said CBS4 Medical Editor Dr. Dave Hnida.

Last year more than two dozen 3-D movies were released into theatres. The technology is so new that there are no medical studies of its effects on vision.

"I think at this point, I'd still limit 3-D games to kids age six years and older. Even then they should be taking a 5 minute break every half hour," said Dr. Hnida.

Most doctors don't expect kids to have any lasting problems.

Problems viewing 3-D can signal other eye problems. The American Academy of Opthalmology recently issued its advice on what to look for.

"Squinting, having discomfort, complaining of eye pain and headaches or afterwards, avoid using them because they're not seeing well," said Dr. H. Jay Wisnicki with Beth Israel Medical Center.

Doctors said if your child has any complaints, it's not a bad idea to turn off the TV or video game and give those eyes a break.