You may have heard that too much screen time can damage your eyes. But screens are hard to avoid these days, with many people using them for both work and leisure. So, how damaging is eye strain?
Eye strain is not known to cause permanent damage, but it can be an uncomfortable condition. Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate the unpleasant symptoms. If your symptoms don’t go away, consider booking an eye exam to rule out other problems.
What Is Eye Strain?
Also known as asthenopia, eye strain refers to fatigue and discomfort caused by prolonged, intense use of the eyes. Eye strain can happen from driving, using screens, reading, or doing detailed tasks like sewing.
When we use screens, we tend to blink less. This leads to uncomfortable, dry eyes. Other causes of discomfort include the glare screens emit, lack of contrast when reading, and improper sitting distances
Can Eye Strain Cause Permanent Damage?
Eye strain is generally not known to cause permanent damage to one’s vision. But eye strain can still be uncomfortable, affecting office workers, students, and many others every day.
How Long Does Eye Strain Last?
Limited research exists on this topic, but the symptoms of eye strain shouldn’t last more than a couple of days. If your eye strain lasts longer than that, see an optometrist. There may be an underlying condition that is making the eye strain worse.
Eye conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related farsightedness) can contribute to eye strain. Getting a proper diagnosis means you can treat these conditions to help relieve bothersome symptoms.
What Is Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer vision syndrome (CVS), or digital eye strain, refers to issues associated with intense use of devices like computers, cell phones, tablets, and e-readers. Reading on a screen entails different postures than reading off a printed page, and characteristics of screens can mean the eyes need to work harder to focus.
According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), using screens for 2 or more hours at a time puts you at risk of CVS. However, the average American worker spends 7 hours a day looking at screens.
Addressing Eye Strain Symptoms
If you have eye strain, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Fuzzy vision
- Light sensitivity
- Dry eyes
- Excessive tears
- Itchy or burning sensations
You may also experience symptoms beyond your eyes, such as:
- Headaches
- Difficulty with concentration
- Pain in the neck, shoulders, and back
These are uncomfortable symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s productivity. Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate them.
Treatment Options & Lifestyle Changes
Some changes you can implement around your office include:
- Regularly using the 20-20-20 rule: This means that every 20 minutes, you look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. The AOA recommends this habit for those experiencing digital eye strain.
- Adjusting your computer: Try positioning your computer screen 15 to 20 degrees below eye level, which is about 20 to 28 inches from your eyes.
- Adjusting your lighting: Place your computer in a place that avoids glare from lights and windows.
- Changing the way you sit: Improper posture can contribute to discomfort. You should be able to sit comfortably with your feet flat on the floor, with your arms supported. Avoid resting your wrists on the keyboard.
There are also tools you can use to alleviate symptoms and improve comfort while working:
- Eye drops: Lubricating your eyes with artificial tears can bring symptom relief. You can buy artificial tears over the counter or ask your optometrist what they recommend. Avoid using eye drops with preservatives too often. If you wear contact lenses, ask us about products suited for your needs.
- Anti-glare products: You can use a screen glare filter to reduce glare from screens. This may help if you spend a lot of time working on a computer or gaming. Certain lens tints and coatings can also be helpful.
Other things you can do include investing in ergonomic furniture to sit more comfortably at your desk. You may also consider placing a humidifier in your room to alleviate symptoms of dry eye.
Care for Your Eyes in Lincoln, NE
Signature Eye Care has been part of the Lincoln community since 2007. We strive to offer each patient a personalized, low-pressure approach to eye care, and we use modern technologies to diagnose eye conditions.
While eye strain may seem minor, persistent discomfort while you work or relax can greatly affect your quality of life. And if your eye strain is persistent, there may be an underlying condition affecting your eyes.
If you’re experiencing eye strain or have questions about your eye health, contact us to book an appointment. We can’t wait to see you!
