The Real Reason Your Eyes Feel Tired After Screen Time

Woman rubbing her eyes after experiencing discomfort due to digital eye strain and screen time Spending more time on digital screens? Whether it’s for work, school, or staying connected, many people find themselves staring at screens for hours every day. At Richens Eye Center, our board-certified ophthalmologists, including Dr. Sharon Richens, MD, FACS, have seen the effects of screen time on vision firsthand. 

Simple lifestyle changes, regular eye exams, and vision correction procedures can help relieve strain and protect your long-term eye health. As the only bladeless iLASIK provider in Southern Utah, we use advanced technology to improve your vision in St. George, Utah, and Mesquite, Nevada.

Why Screen Time Can Strain Your Eyes

Excessive screen time can lead to a condition called digital eye strain, sometimes referred to as computer vision syndrome. This can cause symptoms like dry eyes, headaches, blurry vision, and difficulty focusing. People tend to blink less when looking at screens, especially when reading, working, or scrolling on a phone. Less blinking means less moisture on your eye’s surface, which is what causes that irritation and fatigue.

Tips to Reduce Screen-Related Eye Problems

You can make a few small changes to your screen habits that may help reduce discomfort:

  • Use the 20-20-20 approach: Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a moment to relax.
  • Adjust your screen settings: Reducing glare and tweaking brightness or contrast can make your screen easier on your eyes.
  • Check your positioning: Sit far enough back (roughly an arm’s length) and keep your screen just below eye level to minimize strain.
  • Keep your eyes moist: If your eyes feel dry, using lubricating eye drops may help restore comfort.
  • Stay on top of routine care: Eye exams are important, especially if you spend hours on digital devices. 

Time to Book an Exam

If screen time is taking a toll on your eyes, visit Richens Eye Center at our locations in St. George and Mesquite.  Our board-certified ophthalmologists and optometrists are here to help you manage eye fatigue.

Call us today to schedule an appointment:

Clear vision starts with a trusted team.

Contact Our Practice

Richens Eye Center
St. George/Downtown

Office Hours

Mon-Thurs: 8am-5pm
Fri: 8am-12pm
Sat-Sun: Closed

Richens Eye Center
St. George/Sunset

Office Hours

Mon-Thurs: 8am-5pm
Fri: 8am-2pm
Sat-Sun: Closed

Richens Eye Center
Mesquite

Office Hours

Mon-Thurs: 8am-5pm
Fri: 8am-2pm
Sat-Sun: Closed

Richens Eye Center
Little Valley

Office Hours

Mon-Thurs: 9am-5pm
Fri: 9am-1pm
Sat-Sun: Closed

Accessibility Toolbar

vote for us best of southern utah 2024
Close
Scroll to Top