It’s 8 p.m., and your eyes feel dry and tired after hours of staring at screens. Sound familiar? With the average U.S. worker spending seven hours a day on a computer, it’s no wonder so many people experience eye fatigue.¹ Digital eye strain is very common, with researchers estimating it affects 60 million people worldwide.²
Before the pandemic, about 50% of adults experienced it. However, as screen use increased during COVID-19, that number rose to 78%. Children also faced more screen time during the pandemic, with 50% to 60% experiencing digital eye strain symptoms.²
So, what can you do to prevent this issue? In this blog, we share common causes of digital eye strain, tips for keeping your eyes comfortable, and when to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.
What is digital eye strain?
Digital eye strain, also called computer vision syndrome, happens when your eyes get tired from prolonged screen use. Symptoms of digital eye strain can include:
- Headaches or eye discomfort
- Dry, irritated, or watery eyes
- Blurred or double vision
- Neck and shoulder tension
Anyone can experience it—kids doing online school, adults working on computers, or people who spend hours scrolling or watching videos. Even if you wear your latest prescription for contact lenses or glasses, screen use can still strain your eyes.
Common causes of digital eye strain
Your eyes work hard every day, and certain factors make them even more tired. Here are the main causes of digital eye strain:
- Long hours on screens: Extended computer, tablet, and phone use forces your eyes to focus continuously, which can quickly lead to fatigue.
- Glare and poor lighting: Bright overhead lights, sunlight, or screen reflections make your eyes work harder.
- Dry eye: Blinking less while using screens can worsen dry eye, especially for contact lens wearers.
- Outdated prescriptions: Even minor vision changes can increase eye strain. Our experienced eye doctor can detect these issues during a comprehensive eye exam.
- Poor posture: Slouching or sitting too close to a screen can contribute to neck and eye strain.
Tips to reduce digital eye strain
With the right strategies, you can minimize discomfort and keep your eyes feeling healthy during long screen sessions.
Use the 20-20-20 rule
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This relaxes eye muscles and eases fatigue.
Adjust lighting and reduce glare
Position screens to minimize reflections and avoid bright lights directly behind or above you.
Take regular breaks
Stand, stretch, and rest your eyes to prevent overuse.
Stay hydrated and manage dry eye
Use lubricating eye drops approved for contact lenses or for dry eye relief. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Check your prescription
Ensure your prescription for glasses or contacts is up to date. Even small prescription changes can improve comfort during screen use.
Teach kids healthy habits
During a pediatric eye exam, our experienced eye doctor can recommend strategies to protect children’s eyes from digital strain while studying or using devices.
Protect your eyes and stay comfortable
Digital eye strain doesn’t have to be part of your daily life. With proper habits, updated prescriptions, and guidance from our experienced eye doctor, you can reduce discomfort and maintain healthy eyes.
Ready to relieve eye strain and improve comfort? Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Plainfield Vision Care or Naperville Vision Care today.
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