Just like the muscles in your body, your eyes can get tired. For the job they do, your eyes contain the strongest muscles in your body. But as strong as they are, they can become strained and fatigued by sitting in front of a computer, under fluorescent lights or in front of a TV for several hours. This is called visual fatigue, and an eye doctor can show you how to lessen it during an annual comprehensive eye exam.
Why do I care about visual fatigue?
Today, more and more people are suffering from visual fatigue without knowing the cause of their symptoms. Modern work and lifestyle changes have forced us to spend extended hours in close-range activities such as smart phones, computer work, e-books, and hand-held gaming. The increased demands of these activities on your eyes can leave you with uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptoms. For some people, visual fatigue can also lead to reduction in productivity and ability to concentrate—and may even negatively impact your vision health.
Common Symptoms
- Headaches
- Tired Eyes
- Neck or Back pain
- Burning/Stinging eyes
- Difficulty focusing after extended periods of time
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, your eye doctor may be able to help.
What Should I do?
Visual fatigue can be diagnosed by an eye doctor through an annual eye exam and a discussion on your lifestyle and work habits. If you have visual fatigue, your eye doctor has new technology designed to help you combat it.
