Eye problems? What is asthenopia, how to get it and how to treat it

This is a time when a large number of people spend a lot of time in front of the monitor. Many work by looking at the computer, attending meetings via camera, even when they want to relax and rest, play some good series.

All this affects our eyes, so it is important to react in time when the first problems are noticed.

What is asthenopia?
Asthenopia, also known as tired or exhausted eyes, is a common condition that occurs when your eyes get tired of overuse. A common cause of tired eyes is looking at a computer screen for a long time or the effort we make to see in low light. mojvid.rs.

Asthenopia is generally not a serious condition and stops when you rest your eyes. However, sometimes asthenopia is associated with vision problems such as astigmatism or farsightedness (hyperopia).

How do we know it’s asthenopia?

The symptoms of asthenopia can vary from person to person, depending on the cause of eye fatigue, as well as any other problems someone has with the eyes.

The most common symptoms include:

• Pain around the eyes
• A headache that can get worse if you keep looking
• Dry or watery eyes
• Blurred vision
• Burning, eye pain
• Sensitivity to light
• Difficulty keeping our eyes open
• Vertigo

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, some people may also have reflex symptoms of asthenopia. They may include:

• Migraines
• Nausea
• Twitching facial muscles
• Why does asthenopia occur?

Long – term use of computers and digital devices has become such a common cause of asthenopia that it has been dubbed: “computer vision syndrome” or “digital eye strain”.

In addition to prolonged screen viewing, other causes of asthenopia include:

• Long reading
• Eye strain to see in a cloudy or dark environment
• Long ride
• Exposure to bright light or glare
• It involves a high concentration
• Stress and exhaustion
• Exposure to dry air (fans, air conditioners, heaters)
• Having problems with vision (dry eyes or poor vision).

How can you help your tired eyes?

Asthenopia is usually treated by changing the environment and lifestyle habits. Here are some tips to help you treat asthenopia without going to a doctor.

Adjust lighting

When you have enough light when doing certain tasks, such as reading or sewing, you significantly reduce eye strain and fatigue. Let the Light Source be behind you when you are performing any work that requires proximity and set it so that the light is directed at the object of your work (e.g. book, sewing machine).

If you are working or reading at a table, it is best to keep a shadow of light behind you. It is important that you have enough light, but that it does not go directly into your eyes.

When watching television, the dim light in the room will best suit your eyes.

Apply the 20-20-20 rule

Limiting the time you spend looking at a computer screen or other digital device can significantly reduce the symptoms of asthenopia. In addition to limiting screen time, try the following methods::

Use the 20-20-20 rule-for every 20 minutes in front of the screen, direct your eyes to an object 20 meters away from you and look at it for 20 seconds.

Keep the distance between your eyes and the screen approximately the length of your hands (about 60cm).

Set the screen so that your view goes slightly down.

Use matte screen foil to reduce the glare of the screen glass.

Set the screen as it suits you. Adjust the brightness, contrast and font size to make it easier to see.

Take breaks

Use artificial tears

Artificial tears that can be purchased over-the-counter at the pharmacy help maintain eye moisture, which can alleviate or prevent eye dryness caused by straining.

You can use them even if you don’t have any problems with your eyes, before you start working on a computer or something that tires your eyes equally.

Improve the air quality in your home

Better air quality, which you can achieve, among other things, by using air filters, can affect the Prevention of drying out of the eyes.

Don’t let the air blow directly into your face. You can do this by moving the chair away from the heating and air conditioning vents or moving the fans and heaters away from you. While driving, also move the air-conditioning vents away from your face.

When is the right time to treat asthenopia?

Medical treatment of asthenopia is required when symptoms are severe or are associated with already impaired vision. Contact your ophthalmologist if you have any vision problems or if asthenopia continues even after you have used these recommendations.

Medical treatment of asthenopia and related symptoms depends on the cause of the problem and may include:

• Wearing glasses
• Contact lens
• Refractive surgery
• Eye drops
• How to prevent eye fatigue?

The best way to prevent asthenopia is to limit eye strain activities. You can do this by taking frequent breaks when performing tasks that require full concentration, such as reading or driving.

Limit the amount of time you spend on your computer or digital device, if possible.

Regular eye exams are also important for timely diagnosis and treatment of any changes in vision, as well as other eye problems.

Asthenopia, while debilitating, is not serious and does not cause permanent vision problems.