Understanding Eyestrain: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Find Relief

Understanding Eyestrain: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Find Relief

In today’s digital world, many people experience eyestrain due to prolonged screen time, reading, or detailed visual tasks. Whether you work on a computer, or drive long distances, eyestrain can become a persistent issue. Understanding its causes, recognizing symptoms, and knowing how to find relief can help you protect your vision and improve overall eye comfort.
 

What Causes Eyestrain?

Eyestrain, also known as asthenopia, occurs when your eyes become fatigued from extended use, often resulting from various daily activities. Prolonged screen time, particularly from digital devices emitting blue light, can cause digital eyestrain, also known as computer vision syndrome, leading to discomfort if breaks are not taken. Poor lighting, whether too dim or overly bright, can contribute to strain, especially when combined with screen glare or improper positioning of light sources. 
 

Engaging in close-up work, such as reading, sewing, or detailed craftwork, requires intense focus and can fatigue the eye muscles over time. Similarly, driving for extended periods, particularly at night or in challenging weather conditions, demands continuous focus, which can also lead to strain. Uncorrected vision problems, such as an outdated prescription for glasses or contact lenses, force the eyes to work harder to focus, increasing fatigue.
 

Common Symptoms of Eyestrain

Recognizing the symptoms of eyestrain can help you take action before the discomfort worsens. Common symptoms include:

• Sore, tired, or burning eyes

• Blurred vision or difficulty focusing

• Headaches

• Increased sensitivity to light

• Dry or watery eyes

• Neck, shoulder, or back pain

• Difficulty keeping eyes open
   

If you frequently experience these symptoms, it’s essential to address the root cause and take steps to relieve your discomfort.
 

How to Find Relief from Eyestrain

There are several ways to reduce eyestrain and keep your eyes comfortable:

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: To reduce digital eyestrain, take a break every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps relax your eye muscles and reduce fatigue.

• Adjust Your Screen Settings: Reduce screen brightness, adjust contrast, and increase font size to make reading easier. Consider using blue light filters or glasses designed to reduce screen glare.

• Improve Your Workspace Lighting: Position your light source behind you while reading or working to minimize glare. Use natural lighting when possible, and avoid fluorescent lights that cause harsh reflections.

• Use Proper Eyewear: If you wear glasses or contact lenses, ensure your prescription is up to date. Consider specialized lenses for digital screens or anti-reflective coatings to minimize glare.

• Adjust Your Screen Position: Position your screen about an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level to reduce strain on your neck and eyes.

• Limit Screen Time Before Bed: Reducing screen exposure in the evening can help prevent strain and improve sleep quality. Try reading a book or listening to music instead.

• Get Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams can help detect vision problems early and ensure you have the correct prescription to prevent unnecessary strain.
   

Schedule an Eye Exam at Claremore Eye Associates Today 

Eyestrain is a common issue that can interfere with daily activities, but simple adjustments can provide significant relief. By taking frequent breaks, adjusting screen settings, improving lighting, and staying on top of eye health, you can prevent discomfort and maintain clear vision.
 

If you experience frequent eyestrain, an eye exam can help identify any underlying vision issues. At Claremore Eye Associates, we provide comprehensive eye care to help you find solutions for digital eyestrain and other vision concerns. Visit our office in Claremore, Oklahoma, or call (918) 233-3319 to schedule an appointment today.