Eyestrain affects people from all walks of life. Many professionals suffer eyestrain as a result of too many hours spent staring at computer screens. The same can be said for children, who might spend hours doing homework on their computers before hitting the couch for a few spirited rounds of video games.
Whatever the cause of your eyestrain, it's important that people recognize they are not defenseless against this common foe. But before you can combat eyestrain, it's best to confirm that your vision troubles are the result of eyestrain and not something more serious. Eye doctors can provide such confirmation, but you can also be on the lookout for common symptoms of eyestrain.
Symptoms of eyestrain
Perhaps the most common side effect of eyestrain is how annoying it can feel. Professionals working at their desks, truck drivers spending long, uninterrupted hours on the road and students working on schoolwork can attest that time tends to fly once they get in a zone. While landing in that zone can lead to increased productivity, the Mayo Clinic notes that the following are some symptoms of eyestrain that can pop up when eyes are overused.
- Sore, tired, burning, or itching eyes
- Abnormally watery eyes
- Abnormally dry eyes
- Blurred or double vision
- Headache
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Feeling that you cannot keep your eyes open
How to address eyestrain
If you remain uncertain about what is causing your vision troubles, consult your eye doctor. If eyestrain is the culprit, then there are some ways to remedy your problems.
- Adjust lighting. The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that reducing glare from the screen can reduce symptoms of eyestrain. If necessary, use a screen filter when staring at a computer screen. When you will be spending long hours at a desk, the Mayo Clinic suggests lighting your work area with a shaded light positioned in front of you. Such an arrangement can prevent light from shining directly into your eyes.
- Take frequent breaks. Another way to combat eyestrain is to take frequent breaks from whatever your eyes are focusing on. When sitting at your desk, look away from your monitor. The Mayo Clinic notes that looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes can provide the respite your eyes need.
- Make yourself cry (artificially). Artifical tears are a proactive way to combat eyestrain. The AAO notes that artificial tears, which are over-the-counter products that can be found at many pharmacies, can refresh dry eyes. But artificial tears also can be used to prevent eyes from drying out. Even if your eyes feel normal, a few drops of artificial tears can keep them lubricated and prevent the onset of eyestrain. Speak with your eye doctor about which artificial tears to use, as all products are not the same and you may need to follow specific instructions depending on your eyes.
