How would you handle this?

My new job is HEAVY computers. My migraines have come back full force. I'm not sure how to handle this with my employer?

I've only been @ the job for 1 month and it makes my day horrible and I dread going to work.

I can toto the dr, but can't go back on medication (I was taking meds ~5 yrs ago) .

Just not sure how to deal w/ work? The job is all computer work. I try to break it up & I've been told I need to use/rely on the system..

TIA

Re: How would you handle this?

I don't have any major advice.

A lot of jobs these days are very heavy computer, so I think you are going to need to find a way to deal with this, or find yourself out of a job.

I know that sounds harsh, and I am sure I will pi$$ someone off by being blunt, but it is a reality in today's economy.

I think you should set up a consultation with your doctor to find out what he or she suggests.

I know there's laws to protect people in instances like this, but trust me, employers can and will find a way around them.

I've seen it.

Other than that, maybe others have some suggestions of things you can do that are not all computer.

Message edited 11/1/2011 8:42:22 AM.

Re: How would you handle this?

I wasn't too specific b/c I was on my phone.

When I was having issues with migraines in the past 1- my job was not all day on the computer 2- I took frequent breaks 3- and made sure my computer was at least arms length away (per dr's suggestion).

i do not mind working on computers, but this is literally staring at a computer 8 hrs a day. it's also a high pressure constant go-go-go job. the computer monitor is about 1 foot away (less than arms length), there is no other way to configure my desk (I've been trying) - the monitor is an "old fashion" tube monitor, not flat. I think a flat screen monitor would help, but I"m afraid to ask for one b/c there are others in my dept who have been here longer that have asked for a monitor but don't have one.

I have an appointment with my dr for today . . . we'll see what happens. . .

I'm just leery of saying anything to my manager b/c i don't want to seem like a woos.

Re: How would you handle this?

Have you tried a glare guard?

Re: How would you handle this?

Re: How would you handle this?

I was just going to suggest a glare guard! I am at thecomputer all day and I feel like I am always dizzy, nauseous, my head hurts, my eyes hurt, its def. from the computer. i am even having issues with my arm from clicking the darn mouse so much. I think you should also try to get up from ur desk every hour and walk around. Please try some techniques b4 u talk urself out of the job, so many jobs nowadays require a computer, it stinks!!!

Message edited 11/1/2011 3:16:07 PM.

Re: How would you handle this?

Not the same issue, but someone I work with has issues with her back because she was in a bad accident.

She explained this to our boss and he let her go out and get a certain kind of chair and she just expensed it...........if she waited for someone from our agency to buy it for her it would've never happened.

Maybe you can do something similar.

ETA: A former employee of mine also brought in her own monitor from home because she was having issues with the one work gave her.

Taking breaks is important though, especially when you have a sedentary position.

Just getting up to stretch, make yourself a cup of tea, or drop some mail in the mailbox outside can really help.

Message edited 11/1/2011 5:18:59 PM.

Re: How would you handle this?

Thank you all for the ideas and responses. I will ask about the glare screen or invest in one.

I have been trying to take breaks but its such a fast phased environment and I'm still learning stuff so I've been trying not to be away from my desk.

I wouldn't count this no out simply b/c of the computers, it's just worrisome b/c it's starting only after 1 month.

Re: How would you handle this?

I would ask if they have them around.

I would do a "gee it's been so long since I've worked on an older monitor that i forgot how bothersome the glare is... any chance we have a glare guard laying around?"