HomeHealth articleseye strainHow Is Eye Strain Managed?

Eye Strain - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Verified dataVerified data
0

4 min read

Share

Multiple factors are responsible for eye strain. Read this article to know more about eye strain management.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Gopal R. Damani

Published At October 5, 2022
Reviewed AtOctober 5, 2022

What Is an Eye Strain?

Eye strain is the term used to describe the fatigue of the eyes that may be multifactorial. From digital screen time to the air conditioner, this condition’s causative factor is highly variable. It is one such condition that many of us may have encountered at some other point in our lives. Nevertheless, this condition does not cause much concern as it resolves on its own when; adequate precautions and appropriate measures are observed.

What Are the Symptoms of an Eye Strain?

Eye strain may present with many symptoms. Some of the common symptoms of eye strain include:

  1. Dryness of the eye.

  2. Itching or burning sensation.

  3. Redness of the eye.

  4. Eyes may feel tired.

  5. It may be associated with watery discharge.

  6. It may be associated with a headache.

  7. It may be associated with shoulder, neck, or back pain.

  8. Photophobia (sensitivity to light).

What Causes an Eye Strain?

Eye strain usually occurs due to the continuous usage of digital devices such as desktops, laptops, mobile phones, and tablets. The other causes of eye strain are listed below:

  1. Reading without a break.

  2. Activities that require a lot of focus, such as driving long distances.

  3. Reading or working under poor lighting. Performing activities under poor lighting cause eye strain.

  4. It may be due to any underlying untreated issues such as short-sightedness (myopia) or long-sightedness (hypermetropia). An uncorrected refractive error may also lead to eye strain.

  5. Over or incorrect usage of contact lenses. Using a contact lens beyond the prescribed time limit leads to eye dryness which eventually leads to eye strain.

  6. Poor posture can lead to inadequate distance between the eyes and the object, which in turn leads to eye strain.

  7. Eye dryness is caused due to external factors such as air conditioners or heating equipment.

  8. Not enough sleep can cause eye strain, as adequate sleep is necessary for obtaining rest.

What Is Computer Eye Syndrome?

Computer eye syndrome is a new age term. Considering the digital era that we are in, this term holds more importance than ever before. This term was coined by the American Association of Ophthalmology. This term is suggestive of the fact that people who have more than two hours of screen time are at more risk of developing eye strain. Hence, it may also be referred to as digital eye strain. Computer eye strain is a group of conditions that may be associated with the usage of digital devices such as laptops, mobile phones, and tablets. The amount of digital eye strain is directly proportional to the amount of usage of these devices. The symptoms are very much similar to normal eye strain, but the cause is very direct.

How to Diagnose Eye Strain?

Eye strain can be diagnosed by the symptoms provided by the patient, along with the observations made by the doctor. When adequate measures are taken post-diagnosis, the resolution will become easy. Various tests can be performed to check the overall well-being of the eyes, such as:

  1. Checking for refractive errors.

  2. Checking for muscle imbalance.

How Is Eye Strain Managed?

  1. Periodic Consultation With an Ophthalmologist- Periodic consultation with an ophthalmologist can rule out eye strain that may occur due to underlying eye issues such as refractive error. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can prevent eye strain build-up.

  2. Practicing Eye Exercises- Regular eye exercise can build up a strong musculature, which in turn is necessary for the prevention and management of eye strain.

  3. Using Proper Lighting in the Workspace- Improper lighting puts the eye under greater strain. Hence adequate lighting is necessary to prevent eye strain. Correct lighting according to the user is necessary.

  4. Balanced Diet- A correct dosage of vitamins and minerals is necessary for a healthy eye.

  5. Good Sleep- Good sleep is necessary for adequate rest of the eye that prevents eye strain to a great extent.

  6. Correct Usage of Contact Lenses- Contact lenses should be used only for the time limit mentioned by the manufacturer. Adequate hygiene measures should be taken during the placement, removal, and storage of contact lenses.

How Is a Digital Eye Strain Managed?

  1. Adequate Distance Should Be Maintained Between the Eye and the Screen- An arm's length or distance of 25cm to 40 cm is considered an ideal eye-to-screen distance. This distance reduces the load on the eye musculature.

  2. Correct Angulation of the Digital Device- The device should be placed below eye level so that there is not much strain on the eyes or the neck and shoulder.

  3. Glare Adjustment- Contrast and brightness should be adjusted according to one's surroundings and comfort levels.

  4. Correct Font- Too small a font size puts the eye at a greater strain hence optimal font size should be used on the digital device that is being used.

  5. Breaks Between Screen Time- Adequate breaks in between screen time are an absolute necessity.

  6. 20-20-20 Rule- This is a rule that is universally accepted and followed to prevent digital strain. According to this rule, after 20 minutes of digital time, 20 seconds of break should be taken to look at objects that are 20 feet away. This gives the eye musculature a much-deserved break hence preventing digital eye strain.

  7. Blinking- It is noted that while using digital devices, we tend to blink less than usual, leading to dry eyes. Hence it is necessary to do conscious blinking to prevent eye strain caused due to dry eyes.

  8. Eyewear for Digital Use- Specially designed eyewear is commercially available that has filters that block harmful radiations emitted by electronic screens. These radiations are causative factors of eye strain.

  9. Usage of Eye Lubricants- Over-the-counter eye lubricants are available that can be used to prevent eye dryness and fatigue.

How to Prevent Eye Strain?

Although eye strain is very common, it can be prevented when adequate preventive measures are taken. Even after the onset, it can be quickly reverted when appropriate resolutory measures are taken. Since it is not much worrisome, visiting a health practitioner may not always be necessary owing to its quick resolutory nature. However, it is advisable to have a consultation with the ophthalmologist if the symptoms persist.

Conclusion:

Conditions like eye strain are on the rise owing to long digital hours. A digital device finds its place everywhere, be it for work or recreation. But since a condition like an eye strain is very much preventable, it is better to follow adequate precautions and always have healthy eyes. Nevertheless, it is always better to follow the adage that prevention is better than cure.

Dr. Gopal R. Damani
Dr. Gopal R. Damani

Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

Tags:

eye strain
Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Source Article ArrowMost popular articles

Do you have a question on

eye strain

Ask a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy