Are you feeling like your eyes are tired all the time? You’re not alone. Many people experience this symptom, but it is important to understand why this is happening and the treatment options available. In this blog, we will share some of the common causes of tired eyes and possible treatments.
Common causes of tired eyes
A few of the most common causes of tired eyes include the following:
Lack of sleep
It’s no secret that a good night’s sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and this includes the health of your eyes. When you don’t get enough sleep, your eyes can feel strained and sore, and you might also experience blurred vision and sensitivity to light.
Prolonged screen time
Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a common condition that affects people who spend long hours in front of screens, such as computers, phones, and tablets.
Symptoms of digital eye strain include eye fatigue, dry eyes, headache, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain. These symptoms can be caused by a variety of factors, including the blue light emitted by screens, the distance between the screen and the viewer, and the viewing angle. To reduce the risk of digital eye strain, it’s important to take regular breaks from screens, adjust the lighting in your workspace, and use the 20-20-20 rule, which involves looking away from the screen every 20 minutes and focusing on an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Eye strain
If you’re engaged in activities that require a lot of visual focus, such as reading, writing, or driving for long periods of time, your eyes can become strained and tired. Eye strain may also be due to changes in your vision. If your visual needs have changed, even slightly, getting an updated prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses can provide the relief you need from eye strain and tired eyes.
Allergies
Allergies can cause a range of eye-related symptoms, including redness, itching, and fatigue.
Dry eye
Dry eye occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to fatigue, as well as a range of other symptoms such as redness, itching, and a burning sensation.
Treatment options for tired eyes
If you’re experiencing tired eyes on a regular basis, it’s a good idea to visit an optometry practice like Pathway Eye. Our team of experienced optometrists can help determine the cause of your tired eyes and recommend the most effective treatment. This might include lifestyle changes, such as getting more sleep or reducing screen time, or it could involve the use of artificial tears or other medications to manage dry eye. Schedule an appointment for an eye exam at one of our convenient locations today!