Eye strain is a condition that happens when the eyes gets tired due to intense use such as driving long distances, looking at computer screens and other digital devices. Eye strain can cause a lot of discomfort such as irritation or redness, dry or watery eyes, difficulty in focusing, increased sensitivity to light, pain in the shoulders, neck and back, blurred or double vision and headaches.
Fluorescent lighting can cause blurred vision and headaches because they are brighter than the incandescent bulbs. Most offices and computer stations that have several of these lighting fixtures can easily trigger eye strain and fatigue among those staying in the area.
Some fluorescent bulbs flicker when they warm up and once the bulb is warmed up the flicker disappears. In some circumstances, flickering of the fluorescent lights is still present as the ballast regulates the flow of electricity through the bulb. In places such as schools and office buildings where there are fluorescent lights, the changes in voltages and flickering and can also cause eye strain.
People suffering from eye strain have blurred vision, burning eyes and an increased sensitivity to light that cause headaches. Sitting in front of a computer for long hours every day can cause an existing eye strain to become worse.
Treatment
- Massage the eye gently every day since this helps in improving the circulation of blood in the area and relaxes the muscles found around the eyes. It also helps in stimulating the tear glands which help in preventing dry eyes. By using the fingers, gently massage the area above the eyebrows, temple and the upper cheek bones for at least 10-20 seconds at 1-2 times every day.
- Palming is also helpful in relaxing strained eyes, especially while reading or spending long hours in front of the computer or television screen. Palming makes a restful state of the eyes in order to help lessen tiredness. Warm both the hands by rubbing them together rapidly then close the eyes and put the warm palms over the eyes without applying pressure on the eyelids for at least 30 seconds. Perform this process at least 3-5 times in one sitting every day.
- Stand in front of the sun in the early morning between 8-10 am. Close the eyes and let the sunlight fall on the eyelids, then slowly move the eyes up and down, right to left and clockwise and counterclockwise. Perform this procedure for at least once every day for 5 minutes.
- Splash cold water on the face to lessen mild strain in the eye, increase blood circulation in the area and relaxes the tired muscles around the eyes.
- If there is puffiness, apply a cold compress. All you have to do is wrap a few ice cubes in a clean facecloth and place it on the affected eyelids for at least 5-10 minutes.
- A warm compress can also help lessen eye strain. It also helps in relaxing the tired muscles around the eyes as well as soothing dry eyes. Simply, dip a soft cloth in warm water, wring out excess moisture and place the warm towel over the eyelids for 1 minute at least 3-4 times once or twice every day.