Have you ever tired your eyes after hours of working on a computer, scrolling through your phone or reading a book? Fatigue affects the body in different ways, and the eyes are not spared from its impact.
Eye fatigue, also known as eyestrain, is a common problem that affects many individuals, especially those who spend a lot of time on digital devices or reading. If you find yourself experiencing eye fatigue, it’s essential to know the reasons behind it and how to prevent it from happening.
What is Eye Fatigue?
Eye fatigue is a condition whereby your eyes become tired, sore, and discomforted after prolonged use. People may experience a range of symptoms such as dry and itchy eyes, blurred or double vision, headaches, neck, shoulder, or back pain.
Although it’s not a severe condition, it can be frustrating and affect your productivity or quality of life. Eye fatigue can occur in anyone, but it’s more common in people who use digital devices, read, drive, or do activities that need visual attention for long periods.
Reasons for Eye Fatigue
1. Digital Device Use
Over the past few decades, technology has become an integral part of our lives. Most people spend hours on digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers daily.
Digital devices emit blue light, which has a shorter wavelength and higher energy than other lights. Blue light flickers faster, which can strain your eyes, cause headaches, disrupt sleep, and increase the risk of eye diseases, such as macular degeneration.
Additionally, looking at a bright screen for long periods can cause dry eyes, which can lead to blurry vision.
2. Poor Lighting
Lighting is critical when it comes to eye health. Poor lighting can cause eye strain and make it harder to read or focus on tasks. Reading or working in dim lighting or excessively bright light can cause eye fatigue.
Additionally, working or watching digital devices in dark rooms can cause the pupils to dilate and increase eye strain, leading to headaches and dry eyes.
3. Reading
Reading for long periods can cause eye fatigue, especially if you read small print or in low light. Poorly designed reading material or digital devices that have low contrast and small font size can cause eye strain.
4. Eye Conditions
Several eye conditions can cause eye fatigue, such as dry eye syndrome, presbyopia, and eye muscle problems. Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly.
This condition can cause dry, itchy, or watery eyes and irritation. Presbyopia is a condition that occurs when the lenses of the eyes lose their flexibility, making it hard to focus on objects up close. Eye muscle problems, such as strabismus or astigmatism, can lead to blurred or double vision and eye fatigue.
How to Prevent Eye Fatigue
1. Take Breaks
One of the most effective ways to prevent eye fatigue is by taking breaks between prolonged tasks. Follow the 20-20-20 rule, which suggests taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away.
Taking regular breaks can help to rest your eyes and prevent dryness or fatigue.
2. Adjust Lighting
Adjusting lighting can help to ease eye strain. Ensure that the lighting is not too dim or too bright, and avoid glare from windows or bright lights.
If you’re on your computer or phone, adjust the brightness and contrast levels to comfortable levels and use an anti-glare screen protector.
3. Blink
Blinking can also help to reduce eye strain. When using digital devices, people tend to blink less, leading to dryness. Ensure that you blink more frequently to keep your eyes moist and prevent irritation or fatigue.
4. Wear Glasses
If you have an eye condition such as presbyopia or astigmatism, wearing glasses can help ease eye strain. It’s essential to visit an optometrist to have your eyes checked and to get the correct prescription glasses.
5. Use Artificial Tears
If you have dry eyes, using artificial tears can help to lubricate and moisturize them. Use eye drops as directed, and avoid overusing them.
Conclusion
Eye fatigue is a common condition that affects many individuals. There are several reasons why it occurs, such as digital device use, poor lighting, reading, and eye conditions.
However, it’s preventable by taking breaks, adjusting lighting, blinking, wearing glasses, and using artificial tears. Ensuring that you take care of your eyes can help prevent eye fatigue and improve your overall vision.
