Eye Strain: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Strategies

Eye strain and headache?

I was diagnosed with optic nerve abnormalities at the clinic, and the doctor referred me to a larger hospital for further examination, which confirmed that I do not have glaucoma.
However, I have a very serious issue: I wear contact lenses (monthly disposables) for about 10 hours a day.
I often experience unexplained eye pain after using the computer once or twice a week, to the point where I have to immediately remove my contact lenses.
Despite this, I continue to use my eyes to work on the computer, which leads to severe consequences! If I use the computer for about two more hours under these conditions, my eyes will hurt so much that I develop a headache and need to take pain relievers.
After about three to four hours, I will have another headache! I can't sleep at night because the pain wakes me up; sometimes my head doesn't hurt, but my eyes are in unbearable pain! It usually takes three days for the pain to subside, and only then do my eyes stop hurting! This has severely disrupted my work schedule!
The pain in my eyes typically starts as a feeling of pressure, radiating from the eye area to the surrounding nerves, temples, forehead, and extending to the top of my head, the middle of the back of my head, and my neck, as well as from the nerve that is hidden in the middle of my brain (I don't know if it's the optic nerve?).
Usually, when my eyes hurt and I continue to look at the computer, I can feel a switch in my eyeball that triggers the pain I described above! This pain will definitely last for three days, and during those three days, the pain gradually decreases, finally settling in the area between my eyeball and the middle of the back of my head.

I am going crazy! Doctor, what is wrong with my eyes? Is it just fatigue? Are there any other ways to care for them? Are there any eye drops that can help? This is really painful! I am a helpless patient suffering from eye pain.

Xixiya, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/14

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Based on your description, your symptoms are related to eye strain.
It is recommended that you take a break at the onset of symptoms to see if any further issues occur.

Reply Date: 2016/04/14

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort and pain related to your eyes, particularly when using contact lenses and looking at screens for extended periods. Your symptoms, including eye strain, pain around the eyes, and headaches, can be attributed to several factors, including prolonged screen time, improper contact lens use, and possibly underlying issues related to your eye health.

Understanding Eye Strain
Eye strain, also known as asthenopia, is a common condition that can occur when your eyes become fatigued from intense use, such as staring at a computer screen for long periods. Symptoms of eye strain can include:
- Blurred vision: Difficulty focusing on objects, especially after prolonged periods of near work.

- Eye discomfort: This can manifest as a feeling of heaviness, dryness, or a burning sensation in the eyes.

- Headaches: Often caused by the strain on the eye muscles and the surrounding areas, leading to tension headaches.

- Neck and shoulder pain: Poor posture while using screens can contribute to discomfort in these areas.

Causes of Eye Strain
1. Prolonged Screen Time: Spending long hours in front of a computer or digital device can lead to eye strain. The blue light emitted by screens can also contribute to discomfort and fatigue.

2. Improper Contact Lens Use: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods, especially if they are not designed for long wear, can lead to dryness and irritation. It's crucial to follow the recommended wear time for your specific type of lenses.

3. Poor Lighting and Screen Position: Inadequate lighting or glare on your screen can force your eyes to work harder, leading to strain.

4. Uncorrected Vision Problems: If you have uncorrected refractive errors (like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism), your eyes may be working harder to focus, leading to fatigue.

Relief Strategies
1. Take Regular Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps relax the eye muscles.

2. Adjust Your Workspace: Ensure your computer screen is at eye level and about an arm's length away. Use proper lighting to reduce glare.

3. Use Artificial Tears: If you experience dryness, consider using preservative-free artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated.

4. Limit Contact Lens Wear: If possible, reduce the number of hours you wear your contact lenses each day. Consider switching to glasses for extended screen time or when your eyes feel fatigued.

5. Consult an Eye Care Professional: Since you have already been referred to a specialist, it’s essential to follow up with them. They can assess your eye health and determine if there are underlying issues contributing to your symptoms.

6. Consider Prescription Glasses: If you have not already, ask your eye care provider about glasses specifically designed for computer use, which can help reduce strain.

7. Manage Headaches: If headaches persist, consider discussing this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend treatments or lifestyle changes to help manage your pain.

Conclusion
Your symptoms indicate that you may be experiencing a combination of eye strain and possibly other underlying issues. It is crucial to address these symptoms proactively by adjusting your screen habits, ensuring proper contact lens care, and consulting with your eye care provider for a comprehensive evaluation. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options to help alleviate your discomfort and improve your overall eye health. Remember, taking care of your eyes is vital, especially in our screen-dominated world.

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