Eye Strain: Know the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Eye Strain: Know the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

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 eyes get tired due to prolonged screen time . The most common cause in recent years 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.

What causes eye strain?

Intensely focusing the eyes throughout a task without much blinking causes eye strain. Among the possible causes are:

  • Reading
  • Driving Extended periods of detail work (sewing, writing) Computer and cell phone use Watching TV

Doing various chores or tasks in low-light conditions might increase eye strain. People who had previously impaired vision or a muscular imbalance are more likely to experience it. Eye strain can also be caused by stress and fatigue too.

There are various reasons for digital eye strain. Researchers discovered that people blink less when they use computers or other digital screens, and this results in dry eyes causing strain on the eyes. Due to glare or low contrast between the type and the background, digital devices may induce eye strain. Improper screen distance and poor lighting can also cause eye strain.

Risk factors for eye strain: Who is most likely to have eye strain?

Eye strain risk factors can include:

  • Long periods spent in front of a computer or screen
  • Performing activities that need the eyes to focus for extended periods of time
  • Having dry eyes
  • Having muscle weakness in the eyes

What are the symptoms of eye strain?

Following are the eye strain symptoms:

  • Dry eyes
  • Watery eyes
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Itchy eyes
  • Hard time keeping the eyes open
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Blurred vision
  • Headache
  • Burning eyes

Can eye strain due to dry eye be prevented?

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 the screen times is especially important for children, who may not understand the link between eyestrain because of not blinking eyes in 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 in preventing dry eyes. If you smoke, you should think about stopping.

Choose the right 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 prescribed 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.

Let's protect our god-gifted beautiful eyes from various eye disorders.

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