Eye strain: What to know
In today’s digital age, it is no surprise that eye strain has become increasingly common. With our lives revolving around digital devices, from smartphones to laptops, our eyes are constantly under strain. This constant exposure to screens, coupled with other factors, can lead to discomfort and fatigue, commonly known as eye strain. Understanding the causes of eye strain can help us find relief and minimize its impact on our daily lives.
Digital device usage
One of the main culprits behind eye strain is the excessive use of digital devices. Whether it’s for work, entertainment, or staying connected with others, we spend hours staring at screens. The high levels of blue light emitted by these screens can strain our eyes and disrupt our sleep patterns. Additionally, the constant focus and refocusing required while using digital devices can also lead to eye fatigue.
Visual triggers
Certain visual triggers can also be responsible for causing eye strain. Bright lights, such as those from fluorescent bulbs or sunlight, can create glare and strain our eyes. Poor lighting conditions, such as reading in dim light, can force our eyes to work harder and lead to fatigue. Additionally, flickering screens or rapidly scrolling content can further strain our eyes and worsen the symptoms of eye strain.
Underlying eye issues
Sometimes, eye strain can be a symptom of underlying eye issues. Uncorrected vision problems, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, can cause our eyes to work harder and result in eye strain. Additionally, conditions like dry eye syndrome, where the eyes do not produce enough tears, can also contribute to eye strain. It is important to get regular eye examinations to identify and address any underlying eye problems.
Ways to Find Relief
Adjust lighting and screen brightness
Ensure adequate ambient lighting while using digital devices. Avoid overly bright or dim lighting conditions. Adjust the brightness of your screens to a comfortable level that is not too harsh on your eyes. Consider using software or apps that reduce blue light emission from screens, especially in the evening.
Take regular breaks and limit screen time
Give your eyes regular breaks by following the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps relax the eye muscles and reduces fatigue. Additionally, practice limiting your overall screen time, especially during extended periods of continuous use. Take short breaks and engage in activities that do not involve screens.
Blink more often and follow the 20-20-20 rule
When using digital devices, we tend to blink less frequently, leading to dry and strained eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more often to keep your eyes lubricated. Additionally, follow the 20-20-20 rule mentioned earlier to give your eyes periodic rest throughout the day.
Ensure correct eyewear
If you wear prescription glasses or contact lenses, ensure that your eyewear is up to date and correctly prescribed. Uncorrected vision problems can put unnecessary strain on your eyes. Regularly visit an eye care professional to ensure your prescription is accurate and provide you with the correct eyewear.
Use lubricating eye drops
If you experience dryness or discomfort in your eyes, consider using lubricating eye drops recommended by an eye care professional. These drops can provide relief and help keep your eyes moisturized throughout the day. However, it is important to consult a professional before using any eye drops to ensure they are suitable for your specific needs.
Consider professional help if symptoms persist
If your symptoms of eye strain persist despite implementing these strategies, it is important to seek expert medical care. An eye care professional can evaluate your condition, identify any underlying issues, and provide appropriate treatment. They can also offer specialized advice on managing eye strain and recommend additional measures to find relief.
What to remember
Eye strain has become increasingly common in our digital lives. Excessive use of digital devices, visual triggers, and underlying eye issues are all contributing factors. However, by implementing strategies such as adjusting lighting, taking regular breaks, blinking more often, ensuring correct eyewear, using lubricating eye drops, and seeking professional help if needed, we can find relief from eye strain and minimize its impact. Prioritizing our eye health is crucial in this digital age, and seeking expert medical care is essential if our symptoms persist. Let us take care of our eyes and keep them strain-free for a healthier and more comfortable life.