In today's world, we spend more time in front of screens than ever before. Computers, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, and televisions have become a natural part of our lives. However, this has also led to an increase in patients seeking help at eye clinics for burning eyes, blurred vision, or headaches.
These symptoms are most commonly associated with digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome.
What is digital eye strain?
Digital eye strain is a set of symptoms that occur as a result of prolonged screen viewing.
The eyes must constantly focus at close range, which causes strain on the eye muscles and disrupts natural blinking.
It most commonly occurs after:
- long hours at the PC,
- working from home,
- watching mobile phones in the evening,
- online meetings,
- playing games,
- in children during online learning or excessive use of tablets.
Most common symptoms of digital eye strain
- Burning and stinging eyes
- Dry eyes
- Blurred or double vision
- Headaches and fatigue
- Light sensitivity
- Problems focusing at distance
- Feeling of tension around the eyes and forehead
These symptoms often worsen in the afternoon or evening.
Why do screens strain the eyes so much?
✔ We blink less
When working on a computer, we blink up to 60% less. Eyes dry out and dry eye syndrome occurs.
✔ We force the eyes to constantly focus
Muscles responsible for accommodation (focusing up close) become strained.
✔ Blue light
Emitted by displays can cause fatigue, disrupt sleep, and contribute to eye strain.
✔ Poor ergonomic posture
Poor body posture strains neck muscles, which is associated with headaches and eye discomfort.
How to prevent digital eye strain? 10 practical tips from experts
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule - Every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Blink consciously - Helps moisten the eye surface and prevents dryness.
- Adjust monitor brightness and contrast - It should not be too bright or too dark.
- Set up your workspace - Monitor should be at eye level, 50-70 cm from your face.
- Use glasses with blue light filter - Especially for evening work.
- Don't work in the dark - Screen in complete darkness increases contrast and strains the eye.
- Use artificial tears - They help against dry eyes.
- Take breaks from your phone - Short but frequent breaks help significantly.
- Ventilate regularly - Dry air from air conditioning or heating worsens problems.
- Have a preventive eye exam once a year - Especially if you work at screens for long periods.
Digital eye strain in children
Children are one of the most vulnerable groups. Thanks to mobile phones and tablets, many children spend 3-6 hours daily at displays. This can lead to:
- vision deterioration,
- myopia (nearsightedness),
- headaches,
- sleep disturbances,
- concentration problems.
Early correction and proper prevention can significantly alleviate problems.
When to visit an eye doctor?
We recommend an examination if:
- problems persist for more than 1-2 weeks,
- you have blurred vision,
- you experience frequent eye or head pain,
- you cannot maintain focus while working,
- eyes are red and irritated,
- you have a feeling of 'sand' in your eyes,
- your child spends a lot of time with a tablet or PC.
An eye doctor will check your vision, eye pressure, tear film quality, and recommend appropriate treatment (artificial tears, glasses, filtered lenses, therapeutic procedures).
Professional care at the eye clinic of Poliklinika Mlynská dolina
The eye clinic at Poliklinika Mlynská dolina provides comprehensive ophthalmological care for children and adults – from preventive examinations to solving problems such as digital eye strain or vision disorders.
Patients can schedule an examination, receive prevention recommendations, and establish appropriate treatment for long-term eye health.