Eye strain occurs when you intensely focus your eyes on a task for a prolonged period of time. It can be an aggravating and uncomfortable experience.
Eye strain is sometimes referred to as tired eyes or fatigued eyes. It is linked to dry eye syndrome.
Lots of people spend a great deal of their work and leisure time looking at computer and phone screens as well as other digital devices. You tend to blink a lot less when you sit in front of a digital screen.
Blinking produces tears that moisten and refresh your eyes, so blinking less often can lead to dry, sore and tired eyes. This is known as digital eye strain or screen fatigue and it is an increasingly common issue.
Symptoms of eye strain
Some of the most common symptoms of eye strain include:
- Sore eyes
- Dry eyes
- Tired eyes
- Burning eyes
- Itchy eyes
- Watery eyes
- Blurred vision
- Feeling like you can’t keep your eyes open
Common causes of eye strain
Any activity that requires you to look at something for a long period of time can lead to strained eyes. This includes focusing intently on a computer or phone screen, driving long distances and reading in dim light.
Focusing intently on a computer or phone screen
We tend to blink less often when sitting at the blue light of a computer screen, which can lead to dry, sore eyes.
If the screen of your digital device is too bright, or the contrast set too high, this can also strain your eyes.
Driving long distances
Driving long distances is a common cause of eye strain. Driving at night can put an extra strain on your eyes as they adjust between focusing on dim street lighting and the glare of oncoming headlights.
During the day, the glare from the sun can be another cause of eye strain.
Eye strain can cause blurred vision which can be very dangerous so it’s important to take breaks as often as you can while driving.
Reading in dim light
Reading in dim light requires our eyes to work much harder which in turn leads to eye strain.
How can eye strain be treated?
Choose wisely the eye care solutions that won’t damage or irritate eyes.
Thealoz® Duo dry eye drops are 100% preservative FREE and suitable for ALL dry eye sufferers including contact lens wearers, as they combine both long-lasting relief and protection for the surface of the eye. They are clinically proven to treat symptoms of dry eye.
Blepha® Eyebag is a clinically proven, reusable warming eye mask for rapid and long-lasting relief of dry, tired and sore eyes as well as symptoms of blepharitis. It is easy to use, microwaveable and recommended by Ophthalmologists.
Tips to prevent eye strain
There are some simple steps you can take to prevent everyday eye strain.
Tip 1: Remember the 20:20:20 rule
Sitting in front of a computer or phone screen for a prolonged period of time? Every 20 minutes, focus on something 20 metres away, for 20 seconds.
Tip 2: Don’t forget to blink
It’s easy to forget to blink when staring at a screen. Remember to blink deliberately and often to help prevent eye strain.
Tip 3: Adjust your screen settings
When your screen is too bright, it can strain your eyes. Adjust your brightness levels to a more comfortable setting.
Tip 4: Take eye breaks
Whether you’re driving a long distance, or studying for a big exam, always remember to take breaks to give your eyes a chance to rest.
Your eyes will thank you for it!
