Why Do Your Eyes Feel Tired After a Day of Screens?
Between computers, phones, tablets, televisions and gaming systems, most of us spend a large part of the day looking at a screen. By the end of the day, your eyes may feel tired, dry, irritated or simply “done.”
This collection of symptoms is commonly called digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. It does not necessarily mean that screens have permanently damaged your eyes, but it may be a sign that your eyes are working harder than they should.
Common Signs of Digital Eye Strain
Digital eye strain can affect people differently. Common symptoms include:
Tired, sore or heavy-feeling eyes
Dryness or burning
Red or watery eyes
Blurry vision
Difficulty changing focus from near to far
Headaches
Neck or shoulder tension
Increased sensitivity to light
An outdated or uncorrected prescription can make these symptoms worse. Even a relatively small change in your vision may become noticeable after several hours of close-up work.
Why Screens Can Be Uncomfortable
When looking at something close, your eyes must focus and work together to maintain a clear, single image. Doing this for long periods can fatigue the visual system.
People also tend to blink less frequently while concentrating on a screen. Blinking spreads the tear film across the surface of the eye, so blinking less can leave your eyes feeling dry, gritty or irritated.
Screen glare, poor lighting, small text and an awkward viewing distance may add to the problem.
Try the 20-20-20 Rule
One of the easiest habits to remember is the 20-20-20 rule.
Every 20 minutes, look at something approximately 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
These short breaks allow your eyes to relax from constant close focusing. Set a reminder on your phone or computer until the habit becomes automatic.
And yes, looking away from your computer only to stare at your phone does not count. Nice try.
Adjust Your Workspace
A few simple changes may make screen use more comfortable:
Position the screen approximately an arm’s length away.
Keep the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level.
Increase text size instead of leaning closer.
Reduce reflections from windows and overhead lighting.
Clean fingerprints and dust from the screen.
Remember to blink regularly.
Avoid having a fan or air vent blowing directly toward your eyes.
Take short breaks to stand, stretch and look across the room.
Artificial tears may help some people with dryness, but not every eye drop is suitable for every person. Ask an eye-care professional which type is appropriate for you.
Could Your Glasses Be Part of the Problem?
Your everyday distance glasses may not always be ideal for a computer positioned at an intermediate distance. Depending on your prescription, occupation and working distance, you may benefit from lenses designed specifically for computer or office use.
Lens positioning, frame fit and an accurate prescription also matter. Glasses that constantly slide down, sit crooked or place the optical centres incorrectly may contribute to discomfort.
When Should You Book an Eye Exam?
Book an eye exam when symptoms are frequent, worsening or interfering with work, school or daily life. You should also seek professional advice if you experience double vision, persistent pain, sudden blurry vision or a noticeable change in one eye.
Digital eye strain is common, but that does not mean you have to accept feeling uncomfortable every day.
At 3 for 1 Glasses, we can help you explore eyewear options suited to your prescription, workspace and everyday routine. Visit us at 1550 Upper James Street in Hamilton, or contact us to ask about current eye-exam availability.
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