Most of us know the feeling—tired, sore, or achy eyes after hours on a screen or focusing up close. This discomfort is often called digital eye strain, and it’s a common issue for many of us. The good news is that you can often find relief with a few simple changes.
Understanding the duration of eye strain depends on its cause and your daily habits. For many, eye strain is temporary and can resolve with rest, but persistent discomfort may point to an underlying issue. A comprehensive eye exam is a great starting point to understand your unique vision needs.
Why Eye Strain Happens
Eye strain happens when your eyes work too hard for an extended period without a break. Your daily activities play a big role in how often you might feel this discomfort. Think about how much time you spend focused on digital screens or other close-up tasks.
Common Triggers for Eye Strain
Many things in your environment can contribute to tired eyes. You might notice symptoms after activities that require intense focus. Some common causes include:
- Long hours on computers, phones, or tablets
- Reading for long periods without breaks
- Driving long distances, especially at night
- Exposure to bright light or glare
- An outdated or incorrect prescription for glasses or contacts
Underlying Vision Conditions
Sometimes, eye strain is a symptom of an unaddressed vision issue. Your eyes may have to work harder to focus, which can lead to fatigue. An undiagnosed refractive error or trouble with how your eyes work together can be a factor.
How Long You Can Expect Eye Strain to Last
For many people, eye strain is a temporary problem. The discomfort usually lessens once you rest your eyes and step away from the task that caused it. However, if your symptoms don’t go away, it might be a sign of something else.
Short-Term Discomfort
If your eye strain comes from a specific activity, like a long day of computer work, the feeling should improve after you stop. A good night’s sleep often helps reset your eyes. Taking frequent breaks during an activity can also prevent the strain from building up.
Persistent Eye Strain
When eye strain symptoms linger for days or keep coming back, it’s a good idea to look into the cause. This kind of persistent discomfort might mean your eyes need more support. A visit to your Toronto eye doctor can help identify what’s going on.
Simple Steps for Eye Strain Relief at Home
You can make small changes to your daily routine to help ease eye fatigue. These adjustments focus on your environment and habits. They can make a noticeable difference in your day-to-day comfort.
Adjust Your Workspace & Screen
Your screen’s position and the room’s lighting matter. Position your computer screen about 50 to 70 cm away from your face. The top of the screen should be at or slightly below eye level to help with your posture and eye angle.
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
This is a simple and effective technique to remember and practice. According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists, you should follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something at least 20 feet away. This habit gives your focusing muscles a much-needed rest from close-up work.
When It’s Time to See an Eye Doctor
If home remedies don’t provide enough relief, it may be time to schedule an appointment. One of our optometrists in our Yorkville office can perform a thorough check-up to assess your eye health. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if your symptoms are severe or don’t go away.
Symptoms That Merit a Professional Look
Pay attention to symptoms that go beyond typical tiredness. It’s a good idea to book an exam if you experience any of the following:
- Frequent headaches linked to visual tasks
- Blurred or double vision
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Dry, itchy, or watery eyes that don’t improve
If you have sudden, severe eye pain or vision changes, you may need emergency eye care in Toronto.
Relief Options from Your Optometrist
After a comprehensive eye exam, our team can recommend solutions designed for your eyes and your lifestyle. We use advanced diagnostic imaging to get a clear picture of your eye health. This helps us find the source of your discomfort and recommend appropriate care.
Customized Lenses & Coatings
Your prescription may need an update to better suit your daily tasks. Special lens coatings can reduce glare from screens and artificial lighting. These additions can make your screen time more comfortable.
Dry Eye Therapy & Management
Eye strain and dry eye often go hand-in-hand. If your eyes aren’t producing enough quality tears, it can cause irritation and fatigue. We can recommend a personalized dry eye therapy plan to help restore moisture and comfort.
Neurolens & Avulux for Lasting Relief
For some people, eye strain is linked to a misalignment between the eyes and the brain. We offer specialized options like Neurolens to help with this. Similarly, Avulux lenses can help people who experience light sensitivity and associated headaches.
Comprehensive Eye Care for Every Stage of Life
Taking a proactive approach to your vision is the best way to maintain clear, comfortable sight. At View Eye Care, we provide care for every stage of life, from pediatric exams to senior eye health.Whether you need support for eye strain, a new pair of glasses, or advanced solutions like Neurolens, our Yorkville team is here to help.
Book your appointment today and discover care that fits your life.
