Eyestrain and fatigue usually happen after concentrating on a visually demanding task for a long time. With the relentless march to digitalization, they have become more common. Eyestrain and fatigue are clinically known as computer vision syndrome.

So, what causes eyestrain and fatigue? How do you prevent eyestrain and fatigue from occurring? Read on to learn more.

What Causes Eyestrain?

As mentioned, the most common cause of eyestrain and fatigue today is the prolonged use of digital screens. The Vision Council reports that about 87% of adults and over 75% of children in the U.S. are on digital screens for more than two hours daily. Some of the more common symptoms of computer vision syndrome are:
 

• Red, irritated eyes that may feel dry

• Shoulder, back, or neck strain

• Blurred vision

• Headaches

How Do You Prevent Digital Eyestrain and Fatigue?

• 20-20-20 Rule

One of the easiest ways to prevent computer vision syndrome is to intently take breaks while you are using digital devices. Experts recommend this rule to alleviate the strain that develops over that time.

The rule states that you should find something to look at that is at least 20 feet away every 20 minutes. Focus on this object for about 20 seconds and then return to work. It helps lessen the impact of the close-up work that you are doing. 
 

• Screen Position

The position of your digital screen also plays a crucial role in how it impacts your eyes. The correct distance to lower the chances of strain or fatigue is about an arm’s length away from your eyes. The elevation of the screen also matters, and the ideal level would be about the same with your eyes or slightly lower. Distance may be harder to maintain with handheld devices, but the elevation should be the same. 
 

• Lighting

Lighting, direction, and brightness are critical players in eyestrain and fatigue. The correct brightness and direction of light will depend on the activity you are engaging in. For instance, when focusing on reading a book, the light should come from behind you. 
 

• Blink Rate

A common cause of dry eye is the low blink rate with digital device use. You can reduce the chances of this by taking frequent breaks to blink your eyes and lubricate your eye surface. 
 

• Air Quality

Poor air quality can lead to other eye conditions associated with eyestrain development, especially dry eye. One of the causes of dry eye is moving dry air from an air conditioning unit. You can change this by introducing a humidifier or turning down the cooling and heating system.
 

• Screen Brightness and Contrast

Another common cause of eyestrain and fatigue when using your computer or digital device is the brightness or contrast on the screen. When the digital device is much brighter than your environment, it can lead to your eyes straining harder to see clearly. You can effectively limit the impact of this difference by adjusting the contrast or brightness of your device.

For more on preventing eyestrain and fatigue in the digital age, visit Skowron Eye Care at our office in Elmhurst, Illinois. Please call (630) 834-6244​​​​​​​ to discuss any questions with our team of experts or to schedule an appointment today.