Ever wondered why you feel discomfort in your eyes after prolonged usage of digital devices or driving or reading continuously for several hours?
Well, this discomfort in the eyes is called eye strain.
It is common to experience eye strain after indulging in activities that require heavy usage of our eyes.
But can it be an indication of other eye conditions? Let us find out in this article.
Eye Strain: Overview
Scientifically known as Asthenopia, eye strain is a common condition caused by indulging in daily tasks, such as reading, writing, and driving for long durations.
Eye strain is often caused by overworking the eye muscles or inadequate lighting, which can be worsened by poor work habits.
Although eye strain can cause discomfort, it is not a serious ocular condition.
The eye strain, in most cases, is temporary, resolving within a few hours after taking sufficient rest.
However, if you are experiencing strain in your eyes frequently for days, medical intervention is required for effective management.
An authorized ophthalmologist can help manage your eye strain effectively.
What Are the Symptoms of Eye Strain
Source: pixelshotSeveral signs and symptoms can identify the presence of eye strain.
It is important to look out for the following signs and symptoms if you feel you have eye strain.
Let us take a look at the common symptoms of eye strain.
- Sore, tired, burning, or itching eyes
- Watery eyes
- Dry eyes
- Blurred vision
- Eye strain headache
- Sore neck
- Shoulders pain
- Back pain
- Photophobia
- Difficulty concentrating
- Eye twitching
Individuals can also experience other signs of eye strain.
Therefore, it would be best to seek medical advice regarding eye strain symptoms medical advice from a licensed and authorized ophthalmologist.
However, if you want to learn more about the symptoms of eye strain, read: Eye Strain Symptoms: Recognizing this Discomfort.
What Are the Causes of Eye Strain
Eye strain is usually caused when the eye muscles that help in focusing get tired.
Various lifestyle factors can tire eye muscles and strain your eyes.
The common lifestyle choices that cause eye strain are-
- Long-term concentration, like driving or reading
- Being in too dark or bright environment
- Being stressed or exhausted
- Poor vision
Besides these common causes, digital eye strain, such as eye strain due to video games, is another cause of eye strain.
Daily usage of digital screens can also cause eye strain. Due to digitalization, digital eye strain is becoming prominent among individuals.
According to The Vision Council, 80 percent of individuals residing in the United States use digital screens for more than two hours.
This digital eye strain is also known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).
Besides prolonged usage of computers or digital screens, several other factors that lead to digital eye strain are-
- Blinking less while using computer screens
- Viewing computers and other digital screens at inconvenient angles or distances
- Using devices that cause reflection or glare
- Poor contrast between background and text on devices
Risk Factors of Eye Strain
Several risk factors might cause you to experience strain in your eyes.
Let’s look at these risk factors.
- Using a computer or screen for extended durations
- Performing activities that require prolonged visual concentration
- Eye dryness
- Muscular complications within the eye
- Driving large distances
How to Treat Eye Strain
Source: tirc83_from_Getty_ImagesEye strain is usually treated on its own with the help of effective preventive measures.
Undergoing these steps may help to get relief from eye strain.
Let’s examine the common remedies for eye strain.
- Adjust the lighting
- Take breaks
- Limit screen time
- Use artificial tears
- Improve the air quality of your space
- Choose the right eyewear for you
- Blink often to refresh your eyes
- Take eye breaks
- Manage the lighting and reduce glare
- Adjust your monitor
- Use a document holder
- Adjust your screen settings
If you wish to gather more information about the remedies of eye strain, read: What Are the Top Eye Strain Remedies You Can Implement
Besides following these remedies, you may also incorporate several exercises for managing eye strain.
Palming, massaging, rolling eyes, and vertical and horizontal eye movements are common eye strain exercises.
However, if you are unable to experience any relief from eye strain after following these
preventive steps, it would be wise to visit an eye facility for the proper treatment of eye strain.
Doctors from licensed vision centers may prescribe eye drops such as artificial tears to provide relief from strain in the eyes.
Key Notes
In summary, eye strain, also known as Asthenopia, is a common discomfort that occurs after prolonged activities like reading, writing, or using digital screens.
While it’s generally not a severe eye condition, it can lead to various symptoms, including sore, tired eyes, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
Eye strain is typically caused by overworked eye muscles, poor lighting, and lifestyle factors.
Preventing eye strain involves adjusting lighting, taking breaks, limiting screen time, and using artificial tears.
In addition, specific eye exercises can help relieve eye strain.
However, if these measures don’t provide relief, seeking guidance from a licensed ophthalmologist is essential.
Doctors help address the issue effectively and avoid the potential harm of improper treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does eye strain last?
The duration of eye strain varies depending on its cause and severity. It may last from a few hours to a few days.
Taking breaks, using proper ergonomics, and addressing underlying factors can help alleviate and prevent prolonged eye strain.
What does eye strain feel like?
Eye strain usually feels like discomfort or fatigue in the eyes. An individual with eye strain may experience symptoms including aching, dryness, itching, headache, and difficulty focusing.
Consult an eye doctor and take proper rest and care if you have eye strain.
Is eye strain bad?
Eye strain itself is not typically harmful, but it can be uncomfortable and affect productivity.
However, if left unaddressed, chronic eye strain may lead to more serious eye conditions or worsen existing ones.
Therefore, it is essential to manage it appropriately with the help of an ophthalmologist.
Does eye strain go away?
Yes, eye strain typically goes away with rest and proper eye care.
Eye strain can improve with simple measures like taking breaks, adjusting screen settings, and maintaining good eye health practices.
However, if it persists or worsens, it’s advisable to consult an eye specialist.
Does eye strain damage vision?
Eye strain itself doesn’t usually cause permanent damage to vision.
However, if left untreated, it may contribute to discomfort and exacerbate existing eye conditions, so it’s important to address it promptly.
Do I need glasses for eye strain?
No, glasses are not needed for eye strain in general. However, if you are experiencing eye strain due to poor eyesight, it would be best to wear prescription glasses.
Consult an ophthalmologist for prescribing corrective lenses.
Does sleep help eye strain?
Yes, getting adequate sleep is beneficial for reducing eye strain.
Since lack of sleep can cause eye strain, resting your eyes during sleep helps them recover from strain and fatigue.
Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can contribute to overall eye health and comfort.
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