Eyestrain is a common condition that occurs when your eyes get tired from intense use, such as while driving long distances or staring at computer screens and other digital devices.

Eyestrain can be annoying. But it usually isn’t serious, and it goes away once you rest your eyes or take other steps to reduce your eye discomfort. In some cases, symptoms of eyestrain can indicate an underlying eye condition that needs treatment.

Eyestrain symptoms include:

When to see a doctor

See an eye specialist if self-care steps don’t relieve your eyestrain.

Common causes of eyestrain include:

Computer and digital device use

Extended use of computers and other digital devices is one of the most common causes of eyestrain. The American Optometric Association calls this computer vision syndrome. It’s also called digital eyestrain. People who look at screens two or more hours in a row every day have the greatest risk of this condition.

Computer use strains eyes more than reading print material because people tend to:

In some cases, an underlying eye problem, such as eye muscle imbalance or uncorrected vision, can cause or worsen computer vision syndrome.

Some other factors that can make the condition worse include:

Eyestrain doesn’t have serious or long-term consequences, but it can be aggravating and unpleasant. It can make you tired and reduce your ability to concentrate.

Your eye specialist will ask you questions about factors that might be causing your symptoms. You may have an eye exam during your visit, including a vision test.

Generally, treatment for eyestrain consists of making changes in your daily habits or environment. Some people may need treatment for an underlying eye condition.

For some people, wearing glasses that are prescribed for specific activities, such as for computer use or for reading, helps reduce eyestrain. Your eye specialist may suggest that you take regular eye breaks to help your eyes focus at different distances.

Consider these tips to reduce or prevent eyestrain.

Tips for computer work

Computer use is a common cause of eyestrain. If you work at a desk and use a computer, these self-care steps can help take some of the strain off your eyes.

Some eyestrain symptoms may be relieved by natural products, such as the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, but further study is needed. Talk with your eye specialist if you’re considering supplements to help relieve your symptoms.

If you have eye discomfort, headache or vision changes that don’t improve with self-care, make an appointment with an eye specialist.

Here’s some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

For eyestrain, some basic questions to ask include:

What to expect from your doctor

Your eye specialist may ask a number of questions, such as:

© 1998-2024 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved.

We Make Health Possible

As East Central Indiana’s population grows, we’re putting health care where people need it most. Besides Hancock Regional Hospital, ranked as one of the nation’s safest by the Lown Hospital Index, our network includes more than 30 other locations near your home or work.

Learn More about Hancock