Eyestrain Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

A specialist checks for symptoms like eye strain, headaches, or blurry vision by asking about daily habits and possible triggers.

The specialist may perform a comprehensive eye exam, including a vision test, to find causes such as uncorrected vision problems, dry eyes, or digital eye strain from screen use.

This process helps identify issues like double vision, burning eyes, or light sensitivity that may need treatment or lifestyle changes.

Treatment

To help with eye strain, adjust daily routines and the environment. Simple methods include:

Taking eye breaks. Look away from screens or books every 20 minutes and focus on something far away.
Using artificial tears or eye drops. Use these to keep eyes moist, especially if you wear contact lenses.
Wearing proper eyewear. Glasses made for computer use or reading can offer relief.

Making these changes helps manage and relieve eye discomfort.

Everyday Practices and Simple Solutions

Spending a lot of time on digital devices can cause eye strain, headaches, and neck or shoulder pain. Pay attention to lighting, body posture, and how much you use devices like computers or smartphones.

Light and Glare Control

Use soft lighting when watching television to reduce eye strain.
Place lamps behind you when reading or doing tasks, pointing the light at your work.
Use a shaded lamp in front of you at a desk so light does not shine directly into your eyes.
Lower blinds or curtains to avoid harsh sunlight on screens.
Add an anti-glare cover to digital screens if needed.

Taking Breaks and Limiting Screen Time

Take short breaks from screens regularly. Look away to rest your eyes.
For children, watch device use and encourage regular breaks.
Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps relax your eye muscles.

Keeping Eyes Moist

Blink often while using computers, tablets, or smartphones. Blinking refreshes and moistens the eyes.
Use artificial tears if your eyes feel dry or tired. Choose a preservative-free brand for frequent use.
Avoid drops that are only for occasional use unless your doctor recommends them.

Air Quality Changes

Use a humidifier to make the air less dry and prevent dry eyes.
Stay away from blowing air, like fans or heaters, which can dry out your eyes.
Avoid smoke, as it can make eye discomfort worse.

Ergonomic Setup and Good Posture

Adjust your chair to fit your desk and screen height.
Keep your monitor one arm’s length away. The top of the screen should be at eye level or a bit lower.
If you use printed documents, place them on a document holder close to the screen.
Sit up straight and avoid slouching to prevent back or shoulder pain.

Choosing Proper Eyewear

If you wear glasses or contacts, ask your optometrist about special lenses or coatings for computer use.
Some eyewear is made specifically for digital device use and can help reduce eye discomfort.

Eye Strain Prevention Tips

Activity	Tip
Watching TV	Keep ambient lighting soft
Reading	Point light at task, not directly at eyes
Computer work	Use 20-20-20 rule, adjust chair and screen
Digital device use	Blink often, take regular breaks
Using eye drops	Prefer preservative-free if frequent use
Room setup	Use humidifier, avoid blowing air and smoke
Eyewear	Consider computer-friendly glasses

Stretching and Eye Exercises

Look away from screens and focus on objects at different distances.
Gently roll your eyes in circles and blink several times to relax your eye muscles.

Other Remedies

Some natural products, like omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, may help with eyestrain. Early research shows possible benefits, but more studies are needed.

Anyone thinking of supplements for eye comfort should speak with an eye care professional.

Getting Ready for Your Eye Check

Steps You Can Take Before Visiting

Before seeing an optometrist for a routine eye exam or eyestrain, prepare to make your appointment more helpful. A checklist can help:

Preparation Task	Why It Matters
Write down all symptoms and duration.	Helps describe your problem clearly.
List medications, supplements, and key health issues.	Ensures the doctor understands possible causes.
Track how much time you spend on screens, reading, or other eye-heavy tasks.	Identifies possible triggers for your symptoms.
Prepare a set of questions for the doctor.	Make sure you cover all your concerns.

Sample Questions to Ask:

What could be causing these symptoms?
Are there other possible reasons for my discomfort?
Will I need any additional tests?
What treatment would you recommend?
Should I change anything about my workstation or daily routine?
Are there other ways I can help my eyes feel better?
Is a follow-up appointment needed?

Being hydrated before the appointment may help with some tests. Keeping a symptom diary can show patterns over time and help the eye doctor.

What the Specialist Might Discuss With You

When you go to your regular eye exam or see the optometrist for vision problems, the doctor will ask questions to understand your case. These may include:

What are your current symptoms?
When did you first notice eye discomfort or vision changes?
Have these symptoms changed or gotten worse over time?
On a scale, how strong is your discomfort?
How many hours a day do you use computers, tablets, or other screens?
Is your workspace air-conditioned or exposed to air vents?
What activities seem to bring on symptoms?
Do any changes or actions help you feel better?
When was your last complete vision check?

Doctors want to know about glare, lighting at home, and your overall health. This helps them spot patterns, rule out more serious conditions, and choose the right steps, such as new glasses, eye drops, or changes in daily habits.

Bring notes or logs with you to the appointment. These details help the optometrist understand and treat your symptoms better.