Screens Are a Modern Necessity—But They’re Tough on Your Eyes
Whether you’re working a desk job, attending virtual meetings, checking emails, or winding down with your favorite show, screens are part of daily life in Southern Illinois. But extended exposure to digital devices can lead to a condition known as digital eye strain, or computer vision syndrome.
At Southern Illinois Eyecare, we see patients of all ages who experience blurred vision, dry eyes, headaches, and fatigue—all signs of screen overload. The good news is that a few small changes in your daily routine can significantly improve eye comfort.
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain happens when your eyes get overworked from prolonged screen use. It’s not just about the brightness—it’s about how your eyes focus, blink, and respond to glare and blue light throughout the day.
Common symptoms include:
- Tired or burning eyes
- Blurred or double vision
- Dryness or excessive tearing
- Headaches, especially behind the eyes
- Difficulty focusing after long periods
- Neck and shoulder pain from poor posture
These symptoms may occur at work, during evening screen time, or even while scrolling on your phone in bed.
Tips to Reduce Screen Fatigue—At Work and at Home
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. It relaxes your eye muscles and helps prevent focus fatigue.
2. Adjust Your Environment
- Keep your screen an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level.
- Reduce glare by closing blinds or using anti-glare screens.
- Match room lighting to screen brightness to reduce strain.
- Use a document holder to reduce eye movement between paper and screen.
3. Don’t Forget to Blink
You blink less when staring at screens. Try to blink fully and frequently to keep your eyes moist. Using preservative-free artificial tears can also help with dryness.
4. Consider Blue Light–Filtering Glasses
Blue light emitted by screens can disrupt your sleep cycle and contribute to eye strain. Glasses with blue light–blocking lenses are especially helpful for evening device use.
5. Keep Your Eyewear Current
Outdated prescriptions can cause unnecessary strain. If you’re squinting or leaning closer to the screen, it’s time for a check-up.
How Southern Illinois Eyecare Can Help
If you’re dealing with frequent eye strain, don’t just push through it. A comprehensive eye exam can help identify whether the issue is due to your prescription, dry eyes, screen habits, or a combination of factors.
At Southern Illinois Eyecare, we offer:
- Personalized exams tailored to screen usage
- Anti-fatigue and office lenses designed for digital work
- Blue light–filtering options for all ages
- Dry eye evaluations and treatment plans
- Recommendations for workplace ergonomics and lighting
Take the Strain Off Your Eyes Today
Your eyes work hard for you—give them the care they deserve. Whether you're managing remote work, office hours, or family screen time, we can help you see comfortably and clearly.Schedule your eye exam today at Southern Illinois Eyecare and take the first step toward screen-smart vision health.