Chances are, you’ve spent countless hours on your computer or smartphone, only to end up with discomfort behind your eyes, blurry vision, or even a headache. You’re not alone—these are common signs of eye strain, a frequent issue in our technology-driven lives.
But how long does eye strain last, and how can you manage its symptoms effectively? Eye strain usually lasts a few hours and often improves once you give your eyes proper rest. For mild cases, taking short breaks, adjusting screen brightness, and improving workspace ergonomics can help. If symptoms persist or are frequent, it’s important to consult the eye care professionals at Calgary Family Eye Doctors to check for underlying issues.
What Causes Eye Strain?
Eye strain, also known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome when related to screen use, occurs when your eyes are overworked. This often happens because of prolonged focus on a task, such as reading, driving, or looking at digital screens. A few key contributors to eye strain include:
Extended Screen Time
Digital devices like computers, tablets, and smartphones are prime culprits. The bright backlighting, small text, and tendency to blink less while staring at screens all play a role. The increasing reliance on screens for work, communication, and leisure means many of us are at risk.
Poor Lighting
Dim lighting or glare from bright lights can make your eyes work harder, leading to strain.
Improper Ergonomics
Improper ergonomics such as sitting too close to a screen, holding a device at an awkward angle, or bad posture during work adds unnecessary stress to your eyes.
Underlying Eye Conditions
Uncorrected vision problems like farsightedness, astigmatism, or presbyopia can worsen eye strain. This is why regular eye exams are so important!
Other Activities
Even non-digital activities like reading fine print for hours or long-distance driving can tire your eyes.
Symptoms of Eye Strain
Eye strain impacts everyone differently, but common symptoms include:
- Sore, tired, or burning eyes
- Blurry or double vision
- A sensation of dryness or excessive watering
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty focusing on tasks
- Headaches or mild dizziness
These symptoms can feel frustrating, especially if you’re working or studying intensely, but they are your body’s way of urging you to take a break.
How Long Does Eye Strain Last?
The duration of eye strain largely depends on its cause and how you address it. For minor cases linked to temporary activities, such as a few hours of screen time or driving, symptoms generally reduce or disappear after resting your eyes for a few hours. However, if the activity causing strain continues over days or weeks without relief strategies, it could result in chronic discomfort.
Severe or chronic eye strain might persist even after taking breaks and can be linked to other underlying issues such as dry eye disease or improper eyewear. If your symptoms last for more than a day, worsen over time, or occur frequently, seeing your optometrist is critical.
Tips for Relieving Eye Strain
The good news is there are simple yet effective methods to alleviate eye strain. Incorporating these habits into your daily life can provide quick relief and even prevent recurring eye strain.
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
The 20-20-20 rule is a golden strategy for screen users. Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen and focus on an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps your eye muscles relax, reducing stress.
Adjust Your Screen Settings
Increase text size and reduce screen brightness to a comfortable level. Enabling “night mode” on devices might also provide some comfort from digital eye strain.
Improve Your Workspace Ergonomics
Position your screen about 25 inches from your eyes and slightly below eye level. Sit upright with good posture, and ensure your chair and desk are at the right height to support your neck, back, and shoulders.
Use Artificial Tears
Sometimes, staring at screens for long periods can cause you to blink less, leading to dry, irritated eyes. Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help soothe dryness.
Visit Your Eye Doctor
Regular eye exams are crucial, not just for diagnosing and correcting vision problems but also for identifying other eye conditions that may be contributing to strain. At Calgary Family Eye Doctors, our optometrists can tailor solutions for individuals experiencing frequent eye strain.
Why Regular Eye Exams Matter
Although rest and ergonomic upgrades can often combat mild eye strain, persistent or severe symptoms need professional care. Regular visits to your optometrist ensure that any potential conditions—such as uncorrected vision errors, dry eyes, or early signs of eye disease—are caught early on. At Calgary Family Eye Doctors, comprehensive eye exams aren’t just about optimizing your vision; they’re a key step in maintaining lasting eye health.
A Clearer Vision Awaits
Eye strain can feel like a minor inconvenience, but neglecting habitual discomfort may lead to more significant problems over time. By staying informed, giving your eyes proper rest, and partnering with trusted eye care professionals, you can keep your eyes feeling healthy and comfortable.At Calgary Family Eye Doctors, we’re passionate about empowering patients to protect their vision and enjoy life to the fullest. If digital eye strain or other eye concerns are troubling you, schedule an appointment today. Together, we can help you see things more clearly—both now and in the future.
