From phones and tablets to computers and TVs, screens are part of everyday life. But spending long hours looking at digital devices can take a toll on your eyes. Digital eye strain is a common condition that can lead to ongoing discomfort if it isn’t addressed.
The good news? A few simple changes to your daily routine can make a big difference. With the right habits, you can reduce digital eye strain and enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision.
Keep reading to learn four practical tips for beating digital eye strain.
What is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain, also called computer vision syndrome, refers to a group of vision-related symptoms caused by prolonged use of digital screens, including smartphones, computers, tablets, laptops, and televisions.
Screens can strain your eyes for several reasons, including:
- Constantly refocusing your eyes
- Screen glare
- Blinking less often than normal
- Drying air from nearby space heaters or fans
- A combination of these factors
What are the Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain?
If you’re experiencing digital eye strain, you may notice symptoms such as:
- Tired, sore, or strained eyes
- Blurred or double vision
- Dry eyes
- Headaches
- Light sensitivity
- Difficulty concentrating
Tips for Beating Digital Eye Strain
You can reduce digital eye strain with the following tips:
1. Take Frequent Breaks
To combat digital eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
These brief breaks allow your eyes to rest and reset focus, helping reduce strain. It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re focused on a screen, so setting a timer or alarm can help you stay consistent.
2. Blink Deliberately
Your blink rate drops by more than half when you’re focused on a screen. Fewer blinks cause tears to evaporate faster, leaving your eyes feeling dry and irritated.
When taking screen breaks, make a conscious effort to blink slowly 5–10 times, fully closing your eyelids each time. This helps spread a fresh layer of tears across your eyes, keeping them more comfortable during screen use.
3. Use The Right Artificial Tears and Lenses
Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide fast relief by lubricating your eyes during extended screen time. Brands our doctors trust include Optase, Refresh, Systane, and Blink.
If you need drops more than four times a day, choose preservative-free options, which are gentler for frequent use.
For some patients, glasses with blue light–filtering lenses may also help reduce visual discomfort during prolonged screen use. These lenses are designed to minimize glare and improve visual comfort, especially for those who spend many hours a day in front of digital devices.
4. Avoid Direct Airflow
Air from heaters, fans, or vents can cause tears to evaporate more quickly, making dryness worse. When using digital screens, avoid airflow blowing directly toward your face.
Adding a humidifier to your space can also help restore moisture to the air and ease dry eye symptoms.
Take the Next Step Toward More Comfortable Vision
Digital eye strain is common, but it doesn’t have to be part of your daily routine. Simple changes, like taking regular breaks, blinking more often, and supporting your eyes with the right tools, can help improve comfort during screen time.
If your symptoms continue after trying these tips, a comprehensive eye health exam can help identify what’s contributing to your discomfort and which solutions may be right for you. The trusted eye doctors at VisionPoint Eye Center in Bloomington, IL are here to help you find personalized ways to keep your eyes feeling their best. Schedule your appointment today!
