Eye strain is a condition that commonly occurs when you put a lot of pressure on your eyes due to excessive use of computers and other digital devices – reading in low light, driving for long distances, etc. It can be quite uncomfortable for you to handle, but it isn’t too severe or unmanageable.
Eye strain can be painful and annoying at the same time but it usually isn’t an alarming issue. You can cure it quickly when you take a rest, or make long-term lifestyle changes to manage it properly.
What Causes Eye Strain?
Nowadays, the leading cause of eye strain is the usage of digital devices. The main reason is continuously focusing the eyes on tasks such as:
- Using digital devices
- Driving
- Reading
- Writing or typing
- Exposure to bright lights
Eye strain is often referred to as eye fatigue, and its principal reason is doing anything in low or dim light, causing your eyes to work harder in focusing. People with other eye problems, such as weak eyesight, have greater chances of having eye strain. The problem is often aggravated due to stress, tiredness, or exhaustion.
According to research, most people stare at their computer or laptop screens without blinking, causing dryness and eye strain. A lack of proper distance and lighting can lead to eye strain quickly.
Eye Strain Facts
- Eye strain takes place when you use digital devices, read, or work in low light for a long time.
- It isn’t severe, but can be quite uncomfortable.
- Eye strain has various types, such as digital and anxiety eye strain. Knowing the kind of strain makes it easier to treat it.
Eye Strain Symptoms
The symptoms of eye strain can vary from person to person. But the common symptoms are:
- Blurred or double vision
- Difficulty in focusing
- Dryness in the eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Nausea
- Neck, shoulder, or back pain
- Pain or irritation in the eyes
- Watery eyes
If you are experiencing eye strain in one or both eyes, you should take precautions to prevent these symptoms for a longer time. You might experience them during specific tasks that mainly require vision. According to the American Optometric Association, the common symptoms of eye strain are dryness, headaches, and blurred vision.
Treatment of Eye Strain
Lifestyle changes have an essential role in treating eye strain. This includes wearing glasses for specific activities such as reading or using a smartphone. Other lifestyle changes include taking small breaks during writing, reading, and driving tasks. In this way, your eye strain won’t worsen.
Other tips to decrease eye strain are:
- Make sure to have enough lighting for the specific task
- Use eye drops
- Try to avoid smoking
- Use a humidifier
Final thoughts
Having eye strain is a prevalent condition. The best solution is to avoid screen time and other focusing tasks. Otherwise, you can use other mentioned tips to decrease the eye strain.
