Avoid Eyestrain: Tips for Preventing Tired, Dry Eyes

If you spend long hours in front of a screen, whether it is for work or leisure, you may be familiar with the discomfort of eyestrain. Also known as eye fatigue or asthenopia, eyestrain is a common condition that is the result of extensive use of the eyes in certain situations, such as reading in poor light or driving for long periods in the dark. At Mittleman Eye, our highly skilled doctors are dedicated to addressing patients’ concerns related to eyestrain and other eye health issues and helping patients achieve optimal eye health.

Causes of Eyestrain

Eyestrain typically arises from prolonged and intense eye focus, like when you are staring at a smartphone, tablet, or television screen for hours on end. When coupled with reduced blinking, it can lead to eye fatigue and dryness, resulting in discomfort, eye irritation, and blurry vision.

Symptoms of Eyestrain

Eyestrain may come with the following symptoms:

• Red, watery, or irritated eyes
• Tired, heavy eyelids
• Distorted vision and difficulty focusing
• Mild headaches
• Muscle spasms of the eye or eyelid
• Inability to keep eyes open

Eyestrain symptoms can often resemble those of other eye conditions. If you are dealing with these or other symptoms, it is important to consult with an expert, such as the doctors at Mittleman Eye, for an accurate diagnosis.

Preventing Eyestrain

To alleviate symptoms of eyestrain, consider the following measures:

• Rest your eyes by taking regular breaks
• Adapt your work environment to minimize reflections, glare, and bright lighting
• Use appropriate prescription glasses to reduce strain
• Adjust font size on documents for easier reading
• Use over-the-counter artificial tears to keep eyes moist and comfortable throughout the day
• Position digital screens at an appropriate distance and angle

Importance of Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are essential for sustaining optimal eye health. They help our doctors detect underlying issues early and provide an opportunity for your Mittleman Eye doctor to recommend personalized strategies for managing and preventing eyestrain.

Take the First Step Towards Healthy Eyes

If eyestrain is affecting your productivity throughout the day and leading to rubbing and general eye discomfort, it is time to seek treatment. Prioritizing the health of your eyes is the first step toward addressing eyestrain, and recommendations from our team can help you lead a life with comfortable, healthy eyes. If you are experiencing symptoms of eyestrain or simply want to ensure the long-term health of your eyes, contact Mittleman Eye for a consultation. Contact our office today, where a knowledgeable member of our team can help you arrange the details of your appointment.