Eye strain, also called asthenopia, is a really common problem that happens when your eyes are working hard to focus. Staring at screens all day is a common cause, and eye strain seems to be on the rise in our digital world.
So, how long does eye strain last? It depends. We’ll explore the typical duration, the causes, and what you can do to find relief and prevent it from happening again. The severity of your eye strain, any underlying conditions you might have, and how you treat it all play a role.
What is eye strain?
Eye strain, also known as asthenopia, occurs when you focus intently for a long time.
If you have eye strain, you might experience:
- soreness
- discomfort
- headaches or neck pain
- blurred or double vision
- dry or watery eyes
- sensitivity to light
- trouble focusing
What causes eye strain?
Eye strain has a number of causes, but here are some of the most common:
Digital screen use
If you spend hours in front of a computer, tablet, or phone, you’re probably familiar with eye strain.
Staring at a screen for a long time requires intense focus, and it also cuts down on the number of times you blink per minute. Many screens also emit blue light, which can be hard on your eyes.
Poor lighting
Reading in dim light is a surefire recipe for eye strain, but so is spending time in a room that’s lit too brightly.
Make sure you have enough light to see clearly, but not so much that you’re squinting or getting a glare.
Prolonged focus
Focusing on something up close for hours at a time can also cause eye strain.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure your prescription is up to date, as incorrect eyewear can also contribute to eye strain.
How long does eye strain typically last?
Eye strain is usually temporary.
In most cases, it disappears in a few hours, especially if you address the cause. For example, if staring at a screen caused your eye strain, taking a break from the screen will usually help.
The following factors can prolong eye strain:
- How severe the strain is
- Whether you have any underlying conditions
- Whether you stop the activity causing the strain
- Whether you take steps to relieve the strain
If your symptoms don’t go away, you may have an underlying condition that needs medical treatment.
How to relieve eye strain
Luckily, there are some simple things you can do to ease the discomfort of eye strain.
The 20-20-20 rule
The 20-20-20 rule is a simple way to give your eyes a break. Every 20 minutes, look at something that’s 20 feet away from you for 20 seconds. Taking these short breaks regularly can make a big difference.
Adjust your workspace
Your workspace setup can either help or hurt your eyes. Position your screen so it’s at eye level and about 20 to 28 inches away from your face. Reduce glare by adjusting the lighting in your room or using a screen filter. An ergonomic workspace is key to eye comfort.
Blink more often
Blinking is essential for keeping your eyes lubricated. When you’re focused on a screen, you tend to blink less, which can lead to dry eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently.
Use artificial tears
Artificial tears can provide quick relief for dry eyes. Keep a bottle handy and use them as needed to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.
Other strategies
Staying hydrated and adjusting your screen settings (brightness, contrast) can also help reduce eye strain.
How can I prevent eye strain?
You can prevent eye strain by:
- limiting your screen time
- using good posture and ergonomics, like supportive seating and correct screen position
- turning on dark mode on your devices
- drinking enough water
- making sure your environment is lit well
It’s also important to get regular eye exams. Keeping your eyeglasses or contact lens prescriptions up to date can also ease eye strain.
When to see an optometrist
If you have severe or ongoing eye strain, you should seek help from an eye doctor. An optometrist can help you figure out what’s causing your symptoms. They can also rule out underlying conditions.
Your eye doctor may recommend special lenses for reading, computer use, or other activities. Newer lens technologies, such as home and office lenses and online wide lenses, can also reduce eye strain.
In Summary
Most cases of eye strain are temporary. You can usually ease your symptoms by taking breaks, adjusting your workstation, and practicing good eye care.
To prevent eye strain from becoming a chronic problem, take steps to protect your eyes.
If you have persistent or severe symptoms, see an optometrist for personalized advice.