Eyestrain

Eye strain is a common condition caused by intense use of your eyes, such as by reading, using digital devices or driving long distances. Other names for eye strain are eye fatigue and asthenopia.

Eye strain can cause discomfort, but it’s usually not a serious condition. Plus, there are many things you can do to reduce or prevent eye strain. If you can’t relieve your eye strain with some lifestyle changes, including the use of artificial tears, there’s a chance that it may be a symptom of something more serious than eye fatigue. That’s why getting an eye exam is always a good idea.

Types of eye strain

In recent years, the main common cause of eye strain is the extended use of computers or other digital devices, such as cell phones or tablets. The term for this type of eye strain is digital eye strain.

Eye strain can be temporary or long-lasting.

How common is eye strain?

Temporary eye strain is very common. Most people find that their eyes are tired after a long day.

Digital eye strain is also very common. An estimated 2 out of 3 people in the U.S. report digital eye strain symptoms.