Understanding Eye Strain

Intense usage of your eyes for long-distance driving, staring at a computer, or using other digital devices for a long time can lead to eye strain. While this condition may be irritating, it is not usually serious. Symptoms of eye strain normally go away after resting your eyes. However, if you are experiencing intense or chronic eye strain, this may indicate an underlying condition that may require treatment. That is why our team at Eye Site Texas in Houston and Katy is here to help.

Causes and Symptoms

Caring for your eyes is essential to maintaining healthy vision. That is why it's important to pay attention to symptoms you are experiencing because they may indicate something more serious. Some symptoms of eye strain include:

• Dry or watery eyes
• Double or blurred vision
• Tired, itching, burning, or sore eyes
• Headaches
• Sore shoulders, neck, and back
• An increase in sensitivity to light
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling like you cannot keep your eyes open

Common causes associated with eye strain include:

• Driving long distances and engaging in activities involving focus extension
• Constant looking at digital device screens
• Reading with no pause to rest eyes
• Straining eyes in dim light
• Exposure to glare or bright light
• Underlying eye problems such as refractive error or dry eyes

Diagnosis and Treatment

When you visit our optometrists, we will go over your medical history and talk to you about the symptoms you are experiencing. We will then test your vision and for any signs of a disease or eye issue. 

Treatment for eye strain generally consists of changing daily habits or your environment. If you are diagnosed with an underlying eye condition, we can offer specialized treatment to help your condition. Wearing glasses for reading or using the computer can help to decrease eye strain. Our doctors may make suggestions such as taking eye breaks, so you can rest your eyes and improve your eye focus at different distances.

We also recommend these general tips for anyone trying to avoid eye strain:

• Light adjustment- When watching television, it may be helpful to keep the room softly lit. You should try to position the lighting either behind you or on your page while reading or performing work up close. Shaded lights in front of you will also help.
• Take breaks- Occasional breaks to rest your eyes may be beneficial. Look away from digital screens if you are doing work up close or for an extended time.
• Limiting screen time- This tip is even more critical for children who may not realize the connection between eye strain and extended device viewing.

Contact Us for an Eye Exam from Our Optometrists in Houston and Katy

At Eye Site Texas, our team is committed to top-quality eye care and helping you understand how your eyes contribute to your overall health. We believe being proactive with eye exams can make your eye health easier to manage in the long run. We also provide pediatric care for your child's developing eyes. Give us a call or visit us at our Houston or Katy locations to find out how we can help your eye strain.