Understand the Eye Strain Causes, Symptoms & Preventions

Are you facing dry, watery, itchy eyes with blurred vision and headaches after watching the computer, reading a book, or driving for a long time?

You may be suffering from eye strain or dry eye!

Eye strain indicates tired eyes. It is also called as asthenopia and is more of a symptom than a disease. Eye strain is a common and unpleasant condition that has become increasingly common as a result of the significant increase in digital device usage. There are, however, various techniques to avoid it and reduce the risk of experiencing severe symptoms.

What is Eye Strain?

Eye strain is a common condition caused when the eyes get tired due to prolonged screen time. In recent years, the most common cause has been the prolonged use of computers or other digital gadgets, such as cell phones or iPads, or watching TV.

Although eye strain might be unpleasant, it is usually not a severe condition. Numerous steps can be taken to decrease or avoid it.

Can Eye Strain Causes Dryness?

Eye strain can cause dryness by reducing blinking frequency. Blinking helps distribute tears, keeping eyes moist. Managing screen time and taking breaks can alleviate strain and prevent dry eyes. Intensely focusing the eyes throughout a task without much blinking causes eye strain. Among the possible causes are:

Doing various chores or tasks in low-light conditions might increase eye strain. People with previously impaired vision or a muscular imbalance are more likely to experience it. Stress and fatigue can also cause eye strain.

There are various reasons for digital eye strain. Researchers discovered that people blink less when they use computers or other digital screens, which results in dry eyes and strain on the eyes.

Digital devices may induce eye strain due to glare or low contrast between the type and the background. Improper screen distance and poor lighting can also cause eye strain.

Risk Factors for Eye Strain

Eye strain risk factors can include:

What are the Symptoms of Eye Strain?

Following are the eye strain symptoms:

Tips to Prevent Eye Strain

Eye strain can be avoided by identifying the cause of the condition and devising solutions to treat it. Taking breaks, increasing the blink rate, and other measures can help protect your eyes from getting tired.

Consider the following recommendations for reducing or preventing eye strain:

Adjust the Lighting

It may be easier for the eyes to watch television in a softly lit room. When reading printed materials or working up close, attempt to position the light source behind you and direct it onto the page or task. If you're reading at a desk, place a shady light in front of you. The shade will prevent direct sunlight from entering the eyes.

Take Breaks

While reading or doing close work, take breaks and look away from the paper, digital screen, or task to rest your eyes.

Limit Screen Time

Limiting screen time is especially important for children, who may not understand the link between eyestrain caused by not blinking their eyes during prolonged viewing and the need to rest their eyes frequently.

Use Artificial Tears

This can lubricate dry eyes and help to maintain moisture on the outer surface of the eyes. Even if the eyes feel fine, use them to keep them lubricated and prevent discomfort. Preservative-free eye drops can be used as often as necessary. If you use preservative-containing eye drops more than four times daily, you may develop sensitivity to the preservative.

Improve the Air Quality of Your Space

Using a humidifier and thermostat and avoiding smoke are some changes that may help prevent dry eyes. If you smoke, you should think about stopping.

Choose the Proper Eyewear

If you need contacts or glasses and work at a computer, consider using computer-specific spectacles or contact lenses. Consult the optometrist about lens coatings and tints, which may also be beneficial.

Some people find relief from eye strain by wearing glasses prescriEye Strain for particular tasks, including computer use or reading. But it's a good idea to restrict the use of digital devices and follow precautionary measures to avoid eye strain.

Frequently Asked Questions