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Reviewed by

Dr. Rita Dash

Senior Consultant - Ophthalmology

Manipal Hospitals, Bhubaneswar

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Eye Health in the Digital Era: Know Eye Strain Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

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The world has entered the digital age, constantly exposing our eyes to screens, artificial lighting, and other strain-inducing factors. Although often overlooked, digital eye strain has become a growing concern, emerging as a shadow pandemic after COVID-19. Research estimates that the global prevalence of digital eye strain is 70.7%, with significant variations across different countries. A similarly high prevalence is observed in India, particularly among young adults.

Eyestrain can affect people of all ages, impacting daily life and overall well-being. While it is usually temporary and not a severe condition, frequent eye discomfort may signal underlying vision problems that require medical attention. This blog explores the common causes, symptoms, treatments, and effective prevention tips for eyestrain, helping you protect your vision and maintain long-term eye health.

What is Eye Strain?

Eyestrain is a common medical condition that occurs due to the intense use of the eyes, which makes them tired. Reading, using digital devices, staring at computer screens, and driving long distances all contribute to eye strain. It is also known as asthenopia or eye fatigue. Eyestrain caused by the use of digital devices such as smartphones and tablets is known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. This has become a public health concern.

Although eye strain typically resolves with rest or simple measures to relieve discomfort, in some cases, an eye exam by an ophthalmologist may be necessary to identify any underlying causes of persistent eye discomfort.

What Are the Symptoms of Eye Strain?

Waht are symptoms of eye strain?

Eye strain symptoms include:

Watery, red or irritated eyes
Dry, tired, or sore eyes
Headaches
Blurred vision
Pain in the neck, shoulder or back
Difficulty focusing
Sensitivity to light, or photophobia
Unable to keep eyes open
Muscle spasms of the eye or eyelid

What Causes Eye Strain?

The common causes of eye strain include:

Driving for a long time
Reading without pausing
Looking at digital device screens—smartphones, TV screens and computer screens
Being stressed or fatigued
Not blinking enough
Doing a focusing task in very dim light
Playing video games
Having an underlying eye condition, such as eye muscle imbalance or uncorrected vision
Exposing eyes to bright light

How Is Eye Strain Treated?

Eye strain treatment usually involves making some lifestyle changes and giving proper rest to the eyes. In the case of an underlying eye condition, it may need proper treatment by an eye specialist.

Eye strain treatment or management tips include:

Taking frequent breaks while reading, writing or driving
Wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses for specific activities, as prescribed by the doctor
Using lubricating eye drops or artificial tears
Quitting smoking, as it can be harmful to the eyes
Using a humidifier to improve air quality
Adjusting the lighting as per the activity
Limit screen time
Blink often

Can Eye Strain Be Prevented?

To reduce the risk of getting eye strain, follow these effective prevention tips, including:

Keep your eyes moist by blinking often
Choose screens that tilt and use a glare filter
Position the digital screens far away, and for desktop or laptop screens, keep them at or slightly above eye level
Make sure the screen is always clean, dust-free, and has optimum display brightness
Minimise the lighting reflections and glare by using screen protectors or anti-reflective glasses
Limit the usage of digital devices as far as possible
Use the 20-20-20 rule for periodic rest breaks, which includes after every 20 minutes looking 20 feet away at an object for 20 seconds
Schedule regular visits to an ophthalmologist and ask about the need for corrective lenses for computer work, especially if you are over the age of 35 years

Conclusion

Eye strain is a common issue experienced by almost everyone who uses digital devices for work or entertainment. While it may be annoying and uncomfortable, it is not usually dangerous. However, if left unaddressed, it can lead to more serious vision problems over time. To maintain good eye health, follow preventive measures and schedule regular eye check-ups. Prioritise your eye care today by consulting an ophthalmologist at Manipal Hospitals, Bhubaneswar, for a comprehensive eye exam and long-term vision protection.

FAQ's

Can blue light cause eye strain?

Natural blue light emitted by the sun is generally considered safe. But prolonged exposure to blue light from digital screens such as laptops, TVs, and smartphones can contribute to eye strain, often known as digital eye strain.

Can blue light cause eye strain?

Will glasses help with eye strain?

Specialised eyewear is now available to help reduce eye strain. These include blue-light-blocking glasses, computer glasses, or other prescription lenses recommended by an ophthalmologist for individuals who spend extended hours on digital screens.

Will glasses help with eye strain?

Is a night light good for the eyes?

Yes, enabling nightlight, dark mode, or blue-light filters on smartphones, especially in the evening and at night, can help reduce eye strain and improve sleep quality. These features limit blue light exposure, promoting a more relaxed and restful sleep pattern.