Over the last 10 months many of us have spent a considerable amount of time at home in front of computers, phones, and tablets, due to working from home, home schooling and spending more time indoors. This increase in use of digital devices for recreation and work may lead to an increase in eye fatigue.

Eye fatigue occurs when your eyes are in pain due to being overworked and the muscles in the eye do not get enough rest and hydration. This can be caused by extended usage of digital devices, exposure to bright light or glare, long periods of activity that demand focus and concentration and straining to see in dim lighting. The causes of eye fatigue can lead to a wide variety of symptoms from dry eyes to difficulty focusing, to headaches and tiredness. Symptoms can differ from person to person in varying degrees.

Eye fatigue is quite common, as many as 90% of people who work on computers report symptoms of eye fatigue, and 8 out of 10 millennials experience eye fatigue related to a digital device. In a time where digital devices are everywhere, it is not surprising so many people struggle with eye fatigue.

There are different methods to alleviate your symptoms, including things you can do at home.

• Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently. When using a computer for long periods of time, you are less likely to blink as often as you should throughout the day. Make sure you blink regularly to keep your eyes hydrated.
• 20:20:20 rule. Every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Switch off your devices. Give your eyes a break from screens by turning them off. It is advised to avoid looking at screens at least 2 hours before you go to bed to ensure you are relaxed and get a good night’s sleep.
• Book an eye exam. If you have noticed your vision has changed or have any of the other symptoms of eye fatigue, it is advised to book an eye examination to assess your eye health and check your prescription.
• Find the right lenses. If you need vision correction with glasses it is important to ensure the lenses are suitable for your needs. Our dispensing opticians can help you select the right lenses for you, including glasses specifically for computer use.

Alleviating your eye fatigue symptoms can help you feel more relaxed and productive and less sluggish and irritated.

Under the current circumstances it is likely that working from home may become long term for many people, meaning that eye fatigue could become more prevalent. In a survey carried out by charity Fight for Sight, one in five adults out of the 2000 participants said they were less likely to have an eye examination now than before the pandemic.

Our practices are following guidance and have implemented the recommended safety measures to ensure they are COVID secure. All members of the team have been provided with the recommended PPE and have been risk assessed ensuring the safety of patients and staff in the practice environment. Your eyecare is important and although the pandemic has made things difficult this year, we are her to continue providing our eyecare services.

For more information regarding our COVID measures or booking an eye examination please contact us today.