How to recognize and avoid eye strain

Nowadays, it’s very common to feel eye strain. Although there are multiple causes and symptoms behind it, how can we treat or, better yet, prevent this condition?

Eye strain, eye fatigue, or ocular fatigue – regardless of how you refer to it, continue reading to learn more on the subject.

What is it?

Excessive use of the eyes can lead to straining. You might be thinking:“Aside from when we sleep, don’t we always use our eyes?” Sure, but when we talk about eye fatigue or Asthenopia, we’re really referring to a temporary alteration in the functioning of the eyes where vision can become constraining and inconvenient.

The Causes

Although environmental factors such as the sun, the cold, pollution, or pollen can have an impact on our eyes, overextended exposure to blue light tends to fatigue or strain our eyes the most. Our hyperconnected lifestyle and the omnipresent screens in our life, such as computers, tablets, televisions, and cellphones are primarily responsible for the unpleasant symptoms of eye strain.

The Symptoms

How to determine whether you are suffering from ocular fatigue? There are many varying symptoms. Throughout the day, you may notice that your vision is not as clear in the afternoon as it may have been in the morning. Your field of vision is altered or blurry. You may even notice a glare or spots.

Physically, your eyes may become red, dry, and itchy. They may even feel like they are burning.

Eye fatigue can also manifest itself through headaches that last several hours. These headaches are referred to as Ophthalmic Migraines.

Treatment and Preventiuon

Taking a moment to relax can be beneficial to soothe strained eyes. Applying a cold cloth over your eyes for 3 to 5 minutes can help calm inflammation.

That being said, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you work with a computer or use a screen for long periods of time throughout the day, follow the 20-20-20 rule to help prevent eye fatigue. That means, every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look 20 feet in front of you. Your eyes will thank you. To avoid dry eyes, close your eyes for 20-second periods every 20-30 minutes. 

From an ergonomic standpoint, make sure to work in a well-lit room and to keep your computer screen at arm’s length. You can also wear blue light glasses with an anti-reflective coating.

If you still feel discomfort relating to eye strain after applying these recommendations, schedule an appointment with the Cliniques Michel Pop for an eye exam. We are here and happy to help ensure your eyes’ health!