Eye fatigue can be caused by any activity that causes the eye to focus on one object for a long time, especially when the object is close to the eye. Common activities that lead to eye fatigue are computer work, watching TV, and reading. Eye fatigue may also occur more quickly when the eyes are repeatedly switching focus, making driving, especially night driving, another common cause.
Environmental causes of eye fatigue include lighting that is too low or too bright, as well as glare on the object on which the eyes are focusing. Pollution in the air can also be a cause. Drug use can increase the problem. Stress and lack of sleep can also cause the condition to set in more quickly.
Some vision problems can also make it more likely that eye fatigue will occur under the right circumstances. Astigmatism is a condition that causes vision to blur. Those with astigmatism may suffer eye fatigue more quickly than others because their eyes are already working harder to focus. Those who have refractive problems in their vision may also be more prone for the same reasons.
Also called eyestrain, the condition occurs when the muscles in the eye are strained by overwork. Symptoms of eyestrain may include spasms or twitching in the eye. The eyes may become dry, sore, or watery. More serious symptoms can include dizziness, nausea, and headaches.
Giving eyes a chance to rest before strain sets in is the best way to prevent the problem. When watching television, reading, or doing computer work, shifting focus from the screen or book to another object in the room is enough of a break to prevent eye fatigue in many instances. The focus should be shifted every few minutes. When driving, shift focus from the road to the speedometer occasionally.
Keeping eyes moist will also help with prevention of fatigue. When doing work that requires the eyes to focus, many people don’t blink as often as usual. Think about the need to blink when involved in these tasks and blink often. Eye drops may also be used to help to keep eyes moist.
Addressing environmental factors that may be leading to eyestrain can also help. Reduce the glare on screens, determine if lighting in work areas is too low or too bright, and look at the air quality in areas where eye fatigue tends to be a problem. Those who have been prescribed glasses or contact lenses should wear them when working to help eyes focus and prevent eyestrain.
