Eye strain is very common and, with the increasing use of new technologies, is becoming more widespread every day. Eye strain occurs when you use your eyes to concentrate on something for a long time. Many factors can cause eye strain, but there are also steps you can take to prevent it.
What causes eye strain?
You may suffer from eye strain due to:
- Using computers, mobile phones, tablets and video game consoles for a long time.
- Driving for a long time.
- Read for a long time.
- Poor lighting in the study or work area.
- Being tired or stressed.
- Bright or dazzling lights.
- Not wearing suitable glasses or contact lenses.
- Medical problems with the eyes.
Eye strain is uncomfortable, but it usually goes away if you rest your eyes. It's not a disease.
What are the symptoms of eye strain?
When people experience eye strain, they generally feel tired, sore, or itchy eyes, or notice that their eyes are watery or dry. Eye strain can also cause:
- Burning sensation in the eyes.
- Blurred vision or double vision.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Headache.
- Neck, shoulder or back pain due to muscle tension.
How is eye strain diagnosed?
If you think you might have eye strain, before coming to our Ophthalmology Clinic in Santa Cruz de Tenerife , it's important to be aware of what you were doing before you started experiencing symptoms. One of our specialists will examine your eyes and assess your vision. They will likely ask you questions about what might be causing your eye strain, so it's important to note down the activities that trigger it.
How is eye strain treated?
The best treatment for eye strain is rest. This will usually relieve discomfort, at least in the short term. One of our specialists may also recommend:
- Eye exercises to strengthen eye muscles.
- Glasses or contact lenses with coatings or dyes
If you have any other eye condition, your doctor may recommend alternative treatments. One common problem is dry eye syndrome, which occurs when the eyes don't produce enough tears. Some symptoms of dry eye syndrome are similar to the symptoms of eye strain.
How to prevent eye strain?
There are several things you can do to help prevent eye strain. It's very important to take breaks if you're concentrating on something for a long time. This includes when you're reading, using devices like computers and mobile phones, and driving.
Children can also experience eye strain, especially if they spend a lot of time using electronic devices, playing video games, or watching television. They need to take regular breaks. Using electronic devices less frequently should help.
If you are reading or working up close, it can be helpful to adjust the lighting so that the light is behind you and shines directly on what you are doing.
You can buy lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, without a prescription. These may help your eyes feel better.
If you use a computer a lot, try adjusting the contrast, brightness, and font size on your screen. Adjust your monitor so the top of the screen is just below eye level. Keep the screen clean to avoid glare caused by dust and dirt.
If you or a member of your family is suffering from eye strain, we welcome you to our Ophthalmology Clinic located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife . Contact us and schedule an appointment with one of our professionals. You'll receive the best ophthalmological care in the Canary Islands!
