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When our eyes get tired

Published on November 12, 2013 at 13:30 / Updated on May 8, 2018 at 20:52

Do you feel exhausted after working in front of a computer for hours on end? It’s normal. Ocular fatigue, or eyestrain, occurs when our eyes get tired after demanding activities such as driving for long periods, reading, or working on a computer. Sometimes the symptoms of eyestrain may actually point to a disease that requires treatment, but most of the time, simple changes to our habits are enough to relieve the problem.

It’s important to see a doctor if the following symptoms occur:

  • Double or blurred vision
  • Headache
  • Notably reduced visual acuity

Ocular fatigue does not have any serious long-term consequences, but it can be unpleasant and uncomfortable. Here are some tips for relieving eyestrain:

  • When you do close work, make sure your work is well-lit.
  • When watching television, keep a light on in the room in order to avoid too much contrast between the screen and its surroundings.
  • When working on the computer, place the screen at a distance of 50 to 100 centimeters, directly in front of you. Increase the size of the font to make it easier on your eyes. Adjust the lighting in the room to avoid any glare on the screen, which incidentally should be cleaned regularly. 
  • Take short but regular breaks.
  • Remember to blink often, so your eyes stay hydrated!
  • If your eyes tend to get dry, use artificial tears. Avoid products said to reduce redness, as they may actually increase ocular dryness. Eye drops containing preservatives should not be applied more than four times a day, whereas drops without preservatives can be applied as often as needed. Speak to your pharmacist to determine which product is best suited to your needs.
  • Make sure you have the right eyeglasses or contact lenses for your vision. 
  • Improve the air quality in your environment by adding a dehumidifier, lowering the temperature and avoiding smoke, as these steps may all have a positive impact on your eyes.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/eyestrain/DS01084

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