If you spend hours reading, driving, or looking at a computer screen, you’ve likely felt that tired, achy sensation in your eyes. This discomfort, a key symptom of digital eye strain, is a common experience in our digitally focused world. You might find yourself squinting, rubbing your eyes, or dealing with a nagging headache by the end of the day.
In many cases, reading glasses can help reduce eye strain, particularly if it’s caused by the natural aging process of your eyes. Reading glasses work by magnifying text and other close-up objects, which reduces the effort that your eyes need to focus.
However, these glasses aren’t the right solution for every type of eye strain. Understanding the source of your discomfort (often determined during an eye test) is the first step toward relief.
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
You may experience eye strain after long periods of focus. Potential causes include reading, driving, and using digital screens. In the case of screen use, eye strain is often referred to as computer vision syndrome.
Fortunately, you can take steps to help your eyes feel more comfortable.
Common Signs of Eye Strain
You might notice a few different symptoms when your eyes are overworked. These can range from mild annoyance to more persistent discomfort. Common signs include:
- Tired or sore eyes
- Headaches
- Blurry or double vision
- Dry or watery eyes
- More sensitivity to light
If you notice your eyes unfocusing randomly, this could also be a symptom of prolonged strain.
How Reading Glasses Can Relieve Strain
As you get older, the lenses of your eyes may become less flexible, making it harder to focus on objects up close. This condition is called presbyopia, and it’s a normal part of aging that affects nearly everyone.
When Over-the-Counter Readers Might Help
You can find reading glasses at many stores, and they come in a range of strengths. They can be a good option if you have the same prescription in both eyes and just need a little help to see things up close. These glasses can make reading a menu or a text message much more comfortable.
Possible Downsides of Reading Glasses
While helpful, store-bought readers are not a custom solution. They don’t correct for conditions like astigmatism vs. myopia—an imperfection in the curvature of your eye—and the optical center of the lenses may not line up properly with your pupils. If your prescription is different in each eye, they won’t work as well as custom glasses.
Other Types of Eyeglasses for Eye Strain
Eye strain isn’t just a problem for up-close work. Different types of glasses can help with a variety of visual needs.
Prescription Glasses for Nearsightedness
If distant objects look blurry, you may have myopia. This happens when the eye focuses images in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Custom prescription glasses can correct such issues, improving distance vision and reducing the strain on your eyes from working too hard.
Custom Lenses for Computer Use
As your eye doctor in Novato, we can recommend lenses made specifically for computer use. In some cases, digital strain is caused by underlying issues like eye misalignment, in which case solutions like Neurolens can help alleviate discomfort.
Habits to Help Your Eyes Feel Better
In addition to proper eyewear, simple changes to your daily routine can offer significant relief. Good habits help reduce the demands placed on your eyes throughout the day.
Practice the 20-20-20 Rule
It’s an easy habit to remember and practice. Every 20 minutes, take a moment to look at something about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple habit, known as the 20-20-20 rule, gives your eye muscles a chance to relax and reset.
Adjust Your Workspace & Screen
Position your computer screen about an arm’s length away and just below eye level. You can also adjust the brightness, contrast, and text size on your screen to find what feels best for you. Reducing glare from windows or overhead lights whenever possible can also help ease eye fatigue.
When to See an Eye Doctor for Eye Strain
If you often experience eye strain, it’s a good idea to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Persistent discomfort could be a sign that you need a new or updated prescription. There are several signs it’s time to update your prescription, and ongoing discomfort is one of them. A visit to an eye doctor in Novato can help you find the source of the problem and a clear path to relief.
What Happens During an Eye Exam
During your visit, we check your vision at different distances. We also check the overall health of your eyes, looking for any signs of developing conditions. This gives us a complete picture of your visual needs and how to support them.
Why a Custom Prescription Matters
A professional exam provides a prescription tailored just for you and your lifestyle. Whether you need glasses for reading, driving, or computer work, a custom solution provides clear vision and helps reduce strain.
At Total Vision Novato, we’re here to help your whole family see clearly and comfortably. If you’re dealing with persistent eye strain, please schedule an appointment with us today. We can work together to find a solution that fits your unique eyes.
