If you spend a lot of time staring at a computer screen or reading, you may have experienced eye strain and headaches. But is there a connection between the two? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Eye Strain?
Eye strain, also known as asthenopia, is a common condition that occurs when your eyes become tired from looking at something for an extended period of time.
This can happen when you are using a computer, watching television, driving, reading or doing other activities that require constant visual attention.
What Causes Eye Strain?
There are several factors that can contribute to eye strain including:.
- Poor lighting
- Glare and reflection on a computer screen or other surfaces
- Sitting too close or too far from the computer or reading material
- Uncorrected vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism
- Dry eyes
- Using digital devices for extended periods of time without taking breaks
Symptoms of Eye Strain
The symptoms of eye strain can vary from person to person, but can include:.
- Headaches
- Eye discomfort or pain
- Dry or watery eyes
- Blurred or double vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty focusing
Can Eye Strain Cause Headaches?
The short answer is yes, eye strain can cause headaches. When our eyes are fatigued from prolonged use, the muscles in our eyes can become strained and overworked, leading to tension headaches.
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Is my headache caused by eye strain?
These headaches can range from mild to severe and can be felt in the forehead, temples or back of the neck.
Preventing Eye Strain and Headaches
While eye strain and headaches can be uncomfortable, the good news is that they can often be prevented with a few simple steps. Here are some tips:.
- Take regular breaks when using digital devices. The American Optometric Association recommends the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
- Adjust your computer screen or reading material to reduce glare and reflection.
- Make sure your workstation has adequate lighting. If you are working in a dimly lit area, your eyes will have to work harder to see clearly.
- Get regular eye exams to make sure your vision is up-to-date and you have the correct prescription.
- If you wear glasses or contacts, make sure they are clean and in good condition. Dirty or scratched lenses can cause eye strain.
- Blink frequently to keep your eyes moist and prevent dryness.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, eye strain and headaches can be managed with self-care techniques. However, if you experience frequent or severe headaches, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
The Bottom Line
Eye strain and headaches often go hand-in-hand, but the good news is that they can be prevented with a few simple precautions like taking regular breaks and adjusting your workstation to reduce glare and reflection.
If you experience frequent or severe headaches, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
