If you’ve ever experienced tired eyes, headaches, or blurry vision after a long day in front of a screen, you may be dealing with computer eye strain. Also called digital eye strain, this condition is increasingly common in today’s screen-dominated world.
Below, our McKinney eye care team at Complete Family Eye Care discusses its causes, symptoms, and how we can help you take steps to protect your eye health.
How Common Is Computer Eye Strain?
With the rise of technology in both work and leisure, computer eye strain has become a widespread issue. According to studies, up to 90% of people who spend extended hours on computers or digital devices experience some form of digital eye strain. This includes everyone from office workers and students to gamers and smartphone users.
What Causes Computer Eye Strain?
Computer eye strain occurs when your eyes are overworked by prolonged screen use. Several factors contribute to this:
- Reduced Blinking: Staring at screens often decreases your blink rate by up to 50%, leading to dry eyes and irritation.
- Improper Screen Settings: Poor contrast, glare, or overly bright screens can strain your eyes.
- Viewing Distance: Sitting too close or too far from the screen can force your eyes to work harder.
- Extended Focus: Focusing on a screen for long periods tires the eye muscles.
What Are the Symptoms of Computer Eye Strain?
Common symptoms of computer eye strain include:
- Eye discomfort or fatigue
- Blurred or double vision
- Dry, itchy, or red eyes
- Headaches
- Neck, shoulder, or back pain
- Difficulty concentrating
These symptoms often worsen as screen time increases, making it essential to address the issue promptly.
How Can You Prevent and Treat Computer Eye Strain?
Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to reduce digital eye strain:
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Optimize Your Workspace: Position your screen 20–24 inches from your eyes, slightly below eye level, and reduce glare with screen filters or proper lighting.
- Adjust Screen Settings: Increase text size, reduce brightness, and use blue-light filters.
- Take Breaks: Step away from your screen regularly to relax your eyes.
If these changes don’t alleviate your symptoms, it may be time for a professional evaluation.
How Our Eye Care Team Can Help
Our optometry clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating computer eye strain. During a comprehensive eye exam, we can assess your vision, evaluate your symptoms, and recommend solutions such as blue-light-blocking lenses, specialized eyewear, or adjustments to your visual habits.
Don’t let computer eye strain interfere with your productivity or comfort—schedule an appointment with us today to protect your eyes and improve your quality of life.