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Your eyes can quickly get tired if you stare at a computer, smartphone, or game console for long periods.
The ophthalmologist may call this syndrome computer vision or digital visual tension. It affects most people who use any of these devices.
Some estimates say that eye symptoms related to the computer can be responsible for up to 10 million doctor visits annually.
The problem is expected to grow as more people use smartphones and other digital handheld devices. You hold this device closer to your eyes than a book or newspaper. That forces your eyes to work harder than usual as they struggle to focus on small words.
Digital devices can also be related to eye fatigue because they tend to blink less often when looking at a computer screen.
People usually blink about 18 times per minute. This, naturally, refreshes the eyes. However, studies suggest that people only blink half the time while watching a computer or other digital device. This can cause dry, tired, itchy, and burning eyes.
What are the symptoms?
- Irritated or irritated eyes.
- Problems to focus on.
- Dry or watery eyes
- Blurred or double vision.
- Greater sensitivity to light.
- Pain in the neck, shoulders, or back.
These symptoms can decrease your productivity. If you stay awake for many hours working, it can worsen the problem. The dream refreshes your eye with essential nutrients. Lack of sleep can cause repeated eye irritation.
Causes
Any activity that requires intense use of the eyes for a long time or in challenging conditions can cause eyestrain. These include extended periods of:
- Reading.
- Writing.
- Computer work
- Driving.
Exposure to bright light or the effort to see in low light can also cause eyestrain.
One of the most common causes of visual fatigue is prolonged observation of digital devices, such as:
- Computer screens.
- Smartphones.
- Video game.
How can eye fatigue be prevented?
Make some simple changes in:
Your computer screen:
Place it 20-26 inches from your eyes and slightly below eye level.
- Regularly clean dust and fingerprints from the surface.
- Stains can reduce contrast and create problems such as glare and reflections.
- Choose screens that tilt and rotate.
- Use a reflex filter for your screen.
Your work environment:
- Change the lighting to eliminate glare and intense reflections.
- Use an adjustable chair.
- Place a document holder next to your computer screen.
Your work habits:
- Try the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Post a note that says “Blink” on your computer as a reminder.
- Take regular breaks from computer work.
Your eye care routine:
- Apply a wipe moistened in warm water to overtired and dry eyes (keep your eyes closed).
- Use artificial tears to freshen the eyes when they feel dry.
- To help prevent dry eyes while indoors, use an air filter to filter dust and a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
Treatments for eyestrain
The tired sight is a nuisance. There are some ways to avoid eyestrain. If they do not work, You may want to talk to your eye doctor. Sometimes, visual fatigue is an underlying medical cause that requires additional treatment.
Some standard practices that can reduce the effects of visual fatigue are:
Check your lighting: much contrast will put more pressure on your eyes, so whether you are reading, watching television, or working on the computer, make sure you have the room turned on evenly, so your eyes do not have to work so hard.
Take breaks: give regular short breaks from tasks near work, either using a computer or doing delicate embroidery.
Make sure your glasses or contact lenses are up-to-date: the prescription of the eye has natural changes over time.
How to reduce the swelling of tired eyes
The swelling associated with tired eyes can last from a few minutes to a few hours. People who think that swollen and tired eyes are cosmetically unattractive can look for some inexpensive home remedies in the refrigerator.
While an ice pack can decrease swelling of the eyes, it can be too bulky or difficult to place in the delicate eye. The following options offer more comfortable alternatives to help reduce the swelling of tired eyes:
Cucumbers: Contrary to popular belief, cucumbers do not have anti-inflammatory properties. However, their round shape and composition (mainly water) make cold cucumber slices excellent mini ice bags for swollen eyes.
Bag of frozen vegetables: frozen peas are recommended because they have a way of filling the space around the eyes. Always place a soft cloth between the bag and your skin. Eye inflammation should subside after five to fifteen minutes of application.
Whole milk: the fat in whole milk is one of its soothing components. Protein, amino acids, lactic acid, and vitamins A and D are other ingredients that can reduce eye irritation and swelling. Ice milk works better.
