What is Eye Strain?

Eye strain is not something that is new to our society. In fact, people are constantly having troubles with strain on their eyes on a daily basis. This is because many of our regular activities, including driving, reading and using a computer, require that we concentrate on a certain object for a long period of time. This can cause our eyes to become overworked and essentially strained.

Symptoms of eye strain are characterized by irritated, dry, watery, blurred and general discomfort of the eye muscles. But, before you panic about your possible eye strain, it’s important to understand that this form of strain is usually not very serious and can be easy to fix with a few lifestyle improvements. The bad news, on the other hand, it is not something that can be cured unless you step away from the computer/car/book and let your eyes get the rest they need.

Eye Strain Symptoms

There are several symptoms of eye strain. These include the following:

Your eyes will become sore and tired as if they have not been shut in a long time
Your may experience some itching, burning or dryness in your eyes
Other experience watery eyes and blurred vision
Double vision
Color fringes
Headaches at work
Sore neck or stiff neck problem
An increased sensitivity to light

Eye Strain Causes

Essentially, strain on your eyes is caused because your eyes are overworked. This could be for a variety of different reasons.

If you are spending a lot of time staring at a computer monitor or video screen, then this is probably causing your symptoms. For those who work in an office environment and those who do a lot of research online may complain about strained eyes due to the concentration, the glare and the ergonomics of the computer.
Other causes of eye strain include a bright light or glare from the sun or other lighting system or even straining to see in a very dim lighting setting. Those who read for a long time, drive for an extended length of time, or do any other activity that requires a long period of concentration; the result could be considered strain.

Ways to Avoid Eye Strain

Eye strain is actually quite simple to avoid - give your eyes a rest. Step away from the computer; walk away from the television; and pull over when driving. Unfortunately, however, our lifestyles most likely do not allow you to just quit because your eyes hurt. So, instead you need to do the next best thing - let them rest. Give your eyes a five minute break or focus on something else for a while. If you are working on a computer, check the glare and the lighting to make sure it is not causing eye strain. And, finally, check with your optometrist for additional tips to prevent eye strain. All of these simple tricks can reduce your eye problems in the work force and at home.