Digital eye strain is a prevalent condition that virtually everyone in Canada who uses a phone, computer, tablet, or even TV experiences to some degree or another. Overuse and strain on your eyes can be debilitating, causing symptoms like severe eye pain, migraines, light sensitivity, and discomfort, affecting one or both eyes. The best way to recover from the effects of this condition is with digital eye strain treatment and regular dry eye treatment at home or with your eye doctor in Woodbridge. With Dr. Brian Abrams, you will get tailored treatment and recovery options that make sense for your lifestyle. If you notice the signs of eye strain, book an eye exam in Woodbridge with Dr. Abrams and our team.
Here are some tips on how you can restore and recover from digital eye strain.
Take Screen Breaks
One of the most effective habits you can build is following the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This gives your eye muscles a chance to relax and reduces the risk of long-term strain. It’s a simple trick that works especially when paired with regular breaks from back-to-back tasks.
If you spend most of your workday on a computer, try to build in micro-breaks every hour. Stand up, stretch, blink intentionally, and shift your focus from the screen. Even a few minutes can make a significant difference in managing your symptoms.
Adjust Your Lighting and Screen Settings
Poor lighting and screen glare can worsen symptoms. Make sure your screen brightness matches the ambient light in the room. You should also position your monitor at eye level and about an arm’s length away. If you work near windows, try using blinds or anti-glare filters to reduce reflections.
At night, consider using a screen with reduced blue light or turning on night mode on your phone or computer. These settings minimize disruption to your body’s natural circadian rhythm, which can also improve sleep quality, which is something else that often gets impacted by digital eye strain. If you notice signs of eye strain, book an eye exam with your eye doctor in Woodbridge. Our team will determine the best treatment for your eyes, whether that’s dry eye treatment, blue light glasses, or even eye drops.
Stay Hydrated and Use Artificial Tears
Digital eye strain is often linked with dry eyes. Blinking less frequently while staring at screens can reduce tear production and leave your eyes feeling dry or gritty. Drinking more water throughout the day and using artificial tears can help lubricate the eyes and restore comfort.
In more persistent cases, you may benefit from dry eye treatment administered by your experienced eye doctor in Woodbridge, Dr. Brian Abrams.
When Is Eye Strain Something More Serious?
While most digital eye strain can be managed with breaks, screen adjustments, and environmental changes, persistent or worsening symptoms could signal a more serious condition.
You should consult your eye doctor if:
- Symptoms do not go away after 24-48 hours of rest
- You experience sharp or sudden eye pain
- There is noticeable vision loss or constant blurriness
- There is pain with eye movement
- Your symptoms are not linked to screen time
Conditions such as uncorrected vision problems, dry eye syndrome, eye infections, or neurological issues can mimic or exaggerate eye strain. If digital strain treatment efforts do not provide relief, it is crucial to seek a professional assessment.
Improve Your Eye Health and Restore Comfort with Dr. Brian Abrams
If at-home strategies and techniques are not providing relief, seek digital eye strain treatment from a qualified specialist. Dr. Brian Abrams, a trusted eye doctor in Woodbridge, offers tailored solutions that go beyond basic rest and hydration. Depending on your symptoms, this might include prescription lenses designed for computer use, dry eye management options, or identifying underlying vision issues that may be contributing to your discomfort. Get to the bottom of what’s going on with tailored health care.
Book your eye exam today.
