Computer eye strain is a form of digital eye strain caused by prolonged desktop or laptop use. It results from sustained focusing, reduced blinking, and suboptimal viewing conditions.
Typical Triggers
Uncorrected refractive error, unsuitable spectacles, screen glare, and poor posture all increase strain. Focusing at one distance for long periods makes the eye muscles work continuously.
- People often blink less when concentrating on screens, worsening dryness
- Small fonts and low contrast force the eyes to work harder
- Incorrect screen height can contribute to neck and shoulder pain
- Multifocal lenses may not provide the best zone for screen distance
Practical Tips
Adopting good habits such as regular breaks, correct spectacle correction, and optimal screen positioning helps reduce symptoms. Some people benefit from dedicated computer or office lenses.
- Follow the twenty-twenty-twenty rule throughout the working day
- Place the monitor at arm’s length and slightly below eye level
- Adjust brightness and contrast to comfortable levels and reduce reflections
- Arrange an eye examination if discomfort persists despite these measures
