Eye strain, also known as asthenopia or eye fatigue, is a common condition where the eyes feel tired from intense visual activity. While often associated with prolonged screen time or reading, corrective lenses, such as glasses, can also play a role in its development. This discomfort is generally not serious and resolves with rest or adjustments, affecting daily comfort and productivity. Glasses can contribute to eye strain through prescription accuracy, frame fit, and lens characteristics.
How Glasses Contribute to Eye Strain
Glasses can cause eye strain if the prescription is not perfectly suited for the wearer’s eyes. Lenses that are too strong or too weak require the eye muscles to exert additional effort to achieve clear focus, leading to fatigue. An incorrect axis in an astigmatism correction can also force the eyes to work harder to compensate, resulting in visual discomfort. This struggle for clarity can manifest as persistent strain.
The physical fit of glasses frames is another factor contributing to eye strain. An improperly fitted frame can lead to issues such as incorrect pupillary distance, where the optical center of the lens does not align with the center of the pupil. This misalignment forces the eyes to converge or diverge unnaturally, causing strain as the eyes attempt to adjust. Frames that tilt incorrectly can also alter how light enters the eye, adding to visual stress.
Lens issues, beyond the prescription, can also cause eye strain. Scratches on the lens surface can distort vision, making the eyes work harder to interpret images. Poor quality lens materials may introduce optical aberrations, further contributing to visual fatigue. Additionally, glare and reflections from various light sources bouncing off the lens surface can be distracting and force the eyes to squint or strain to see past the reflections.
Adapting to certain lenses, such as progressive lenses, can also be a source of temporary eye strain. These lenses have multiple focal points, requiring the wearer to learn how to move their head and eyes to find the correct viewing area for different distances. This adaptation period can initially lead to discomfort and fatigue as the brain and eyes adjust to the new visual demands. Typically, this adjustment period can last from a few days to up to two weeks, especially with significant prescription changes.
Identifying Symptoms of Eye Strain
Recognizing eye strain signs is the first step toward addressing the underlying cause. A common symptom is the development of headaches, particularly those felt in the forehead area, which often arise from the continuous effort of the eye muscles. Individuals may also notice blurred vision, where objects appear less sharp, or experience difficulty maintaining focus on tasks. This can make reading or working on a computer particularly challenging.
Eye discomfort can manifest as dryness or excessive watering. The eyes may feel tired, sore, or have a burning or itching sensation, indicating irritation from overuse. Some people experience increased sensitivity to light, a condition known as photophobia, which can make bright environments uncomfortable. Additionally, the strain on the visual system can extend to other parts of the body, leading to tension and pain in the neck and shoulders, often linked to altered posture adopted to achieve clearer vision.
Solutions and When to Seek Professional Help
Addressing eye strain often begins with ensuring the current eyeglass prescription is accurate and up-to-date. Regular eye examinations are important to detect any changes in vision that might necessitate a new prescription, as an outdated one can be a significant source of strain. It is also beneficial to confirm that frames are properly fitted to your face, ensuring lenses are correctly positioned for optimal vision. An optometrist can adjust the frame to ensure proper pupillary distance and overall alignment.
Maintaining clean lenses is a simple yet effective way to reduce eye strain, as smudges and dirt obscure vision and force eyes to work harder. Taking regular visual breaks, often referred to as the 20-20-20 rule, can also alleviate discomfort: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice helps to relax the focusing muscles of the eyes. Ensuring adequate lighting when reading or using digital devices can also prevent unnecessary strain.
It is advisable to consult an eye care professional if eye strain symptoms persist despite attempting these self-care measures. If new or worsening symptoms appear, or if there is any doubt regarding the accuracy of the prescription or the overall health of your eyes, professional evaluation is warranted. An eye doctor can conduct comprehensive tests to rule out underlying eye conditions or confirm if current glasses are indeed contributing to the discomfort, providing tailored solutions for lasting relief.