Eye fatigue is one of the increasing ailments. This discomfort, which is frequently seen in people who constantly look at the computer or phone, can be treated with simple methods.

Eye fatigue, called “asthenopia” in medical language, is the fatigue of the eyes due to overwork of the optic nerves and small muscles. Eyes are very sensitive to lack of nutrition, lack of sleep, environmental pollution and muscle tension, and reading without a break, driving for a long time, spending too much time on digital screens and prolonged exposure to some lighting can cause eye fatigue. Although some eye diseases occur due to a genetic or medical condition, eye fatigue is not among these diseases.

Digital eye strain is one of the most common disorders of our age. Especially direct and long-term use of digital devices by children and adults leads to eye fatigue. Exposure to the screens of electronic devices such as phones and computers in childhood has been proven in studies to cause myopia in later ages.

Long-term screen time: Spending long hours in front of digital screens (computers, smartphones, tablets and TVs) can lead to digital eye strain, characterised by symptoms such as dry eyes, blurred vision and discomfort.

Poor lighting: Inadequate or excessive lighting in your workspace or environment can strain your eyes. Inadequate lighting can make it difficult to read or work, while overly bright lighting can cause glare and discomfort.

Uncorrected vision problems: If you have uncorrected vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, your eyes may work harder to focus, which can lead to eye strain.

Incorrectly prescribed glasses or contact lenses: Wearing the wrong prescription glasses or contact lenses or old lenses can cause eye discomfort and fatigue. Inadequate tear production or poor tear quality can cause dry eyes, which can lead to eye fatigue and discomfort.

Exposure to blue light: Prolonged exposure to blue light emitted from digital screens and artificial lighting can disrupt your sleep-wake cycle and contribute to eye strain.

Reading for long periods of time: Reading for long periods of time without taking breaks or using proper lighting can cause eye strain, often referred to as “reader’s fatigue”.

Poor ergonomics: An uncomfortable workstation setup, such as an improperly positioned computer monitor, keyboard or chair, can lead to awkward postures and eye strain.

Lack of blinking: When working on a computer or focusing intently on a task, people tend to blink less, which can lead to dry eyes and eye fatigue.

Exposure to allergens: Allergens such as dust, pollen or pet dander can irritate your eyes and cause eye strain, especially if you are allergic.

Eye diseases and conditions: Some eye conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts or macular degeneration, can also cause eye strain, among other visual symptoms.

Eye fatigue is a condition that is very disturbing to people. Those seeking eye strain treatment should first make some changes in their lifestyle. Generally, eye strain is not a medically treated condition. However, in some cases, eye fatigue symptoms may also be the cause of conjunctivitis. It is necessary to be examined by an ophthalmologist for ongoing discomfort as a result of measures taken such as resting the eyes. To prevent and alleviate eye strain, it is very important to follow the 20-20-20 rule (take a 20 second break every 20 minutes and look at something 20 metres away), adjust your lighting and screen settings, maintain proper ergonomics, keep your prescription up to date and use artificial tears or lubricating eye drops when necessary.

March 2024