Is Your Daily Routine Secretly Causing Dry and Strained Eyes?

In our modern world, many people suffer from dry and strained eyes, especially with the rise of digital device use and changing environmental factors. These common eye problems can cause discomfort, affect productivity, and reduce quality of life if left unaddressed. Understanding their causes and how to prevent or treat them is essential for maintaining good eye health.

What Causes Eye Strain?

Eye strain happens when your eyes get tired from intense use. It commonly occurs during activities like reading, working on a computer, or focusing on detailed work for long periods without breaks.

Common causes of eye strain include:

1. Prolonged Screen Time (Digital Eye Strain)

1.1 Reduced Blinking: When we focus on digital screens, we tend to blink less, leading to dry eyes and eye strain. 

1.2 Poor Screen Resolution and Contrast: Low-quality screens with poor contrast or improper brightness can strain the eyes. 

1.3 Glare: Reflections from screens can cause discomfort and eye strain. 

1.4 Improper Viewing Distance: Being too close to a screen or having improper screen positioning can exacerbate eye strain[1].

1.5 Oxidative stress:Oxidative stress remains a significant concern, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly or individuals with preexisting retinal conditions. Cumulative blue light exposure from both digital devices and sunlight may contribute to retinal cell damage and potentially increase the long term risk of age related macular degeneration (AMD)[6].

 

2. Intense Focus Activities 

2.1 Reading: Reading for extended periods, especially without breaks, can fatigue the eye muscles. 

2.2 Driving: Driving long distances or engaging in other activities that require continuous focus can cause eye strain. 

2.3 Detailed Work:Tasks involving close-up work, such as sewing or crafting, can strain the eyes. [2].

3. Environmental Factors

3.1 Bright Light or Glare: Excessive exposure to bright light or glare can tire the eyes [3].

3.2 Dry Air: Dry or polluted environments and places with fans and heating and cooling units may irritate or dry out eyes, leading to eyestrain[4].

Conclusion

Strained eyes are common in today’s digital age but don’t have to interfere with your daily life. By understanding their causes and adopting healthy habits in our upcoming health articles, you can protect your eyes, reduce discomfort, and maintain clear, comfortable vision.

 

References:

  1. Kaur, K., Gurnani, B., Nayak, S., Deori, N., Kaur, S., Jethani, J., Singh, D., Agarkar, S., Hussaindeen, J. R., Sukhija, J., & Mishra, D. (2022). Digital eye strain—A comprehensive review. Ophthalmology and Therapy. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9434525/

  2. American Academy of Ophthalmology. (n.d.). Computers, digital devices, and eye strain. Retrieved May 23, 2025. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/computer-usage

  3. BenQ. (n.d.). Protective peepers: The best eye-caring desk lamps for comfortable computing and study. BenQ. Retrieved May 23, 2025, from https://www.benq.com/en-my/knowledge-center/knowledge/eye-caring-desk-lamp-for-computer-and-studying.html

  4. Silver, N. (2024, August 29). Eyestrain: Causes, tips for prevention, and treatments. Healthline. Retrieved May 23, 2025,  https://www.healthline.com/health/eye-health/eye-strain#eye-drops

  5. Chakravarthy, H., Georgyev, V., Wagen, C., Hosseini, A., & Matsubara, J. (2024). Blue light-induced phototoxicity in retinal cells: Implications in age-related macular degeneration. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11685196/