Digital eye strain, also called computer vision syndrome, is becoming increasingly common as daily life shifts toward screens for work, school, and entertainment. Many people do not realize how quickly visual fatigue can build during long periods of computer or phone use. The American Optometric Association (AOA) reports that “the average American worker spends seven hours a day on the computer either in the office or working from home,” and that number can rise even higher when tablets, smartphones, and gaming devices are included.
Extended screen exposure forces the eyes to constantly focus and refocus while processing glare, contrast, and bright digital light. Over time, this strain can lead to headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, especially during long workdays or remote-learning sessions.
Common Causes in Spokane
Digital eye strain affects people of all ages, but certain environmental and lifestyle factors make it common in the Spokane region. Spokane’s cold winters, low humidity, and bright seasonal glare can intensify dry eye symptoms, while long workdays spent indoors increase exposure to artificial light and screen glare.
A 2025 Workplace Vision Health Report found that 68% of employees experience digital eye strain symptoms such as blurred vision, eye strain, and dry, itchy eyes, and 59% said those symptoms affect their productivity. With many people now spending up to 97 hours of screen time per week, Eyes for Life often sees Spokane patients experiencing these same challenges due to remote work, online schooling, and extended smartphone use.
Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome
Eye fatigue symptoms can appear after only a few hours of continuous screen time and often worsen without breaks or ergonomic adjustments.
Common symptoms include:
- Blurred or double vision
- Dry, irritated, or watery eyes
- Headaches or neck and shoulder pain
- Sensitivity to light
- Trouble concentrating or focusing
The AOA notes, “Viewing a computer or digital screen is different from reading a printed page. Often the letters are not as precise or sharply defined, contrast between the letters and background is reduced, and glare or reflections may make viewing difficult.”
These conditions cause the eyes to work harder to maintain focus, leading to persistent screen time eye strain and general discomfort.
Ways to Relieve Eye Strain Naturally
While digital eye strain is common, it can often be relieved with simple, consistent changes to daily habits.
Practical strategies include:
- Following the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a rest.
- Blinking often: Frequent blinking keeps the eyes naturally lubricated and helps prevent dryness, a common problem in Spokane’s low-humidity climate.
- Using artificial tears or a humidifier: Both can help relieve irritation from dry indoor air.
- Adjusting monitor position: Place your screen about an arm’s length away and 15–20 degrees below eye level to reduce strain on the eyes and neck.
- Minimizing glare: Use blinds or curtains to reduce reflections from windows, and consider an anti-glare filter if overhead lighting cannot be adjusted.
Proper posture and workstation setup also play a major role in preventing computer vision syndrome. The AOA recommends:
- Positioning the screen 20–28 inches from your eyes and slightly below eye level.
- Placing reference materials close to the monitor to avoid repeated head movements.
- Using comfortable seating that supports your back and keeps your feet flat on the floor.
- Taking regular breaks: Rest your eyes for at least 15 minutes after every two hours of continuous screen time.
Finally, routine eye exams are essential for detecting underlying issues, such as focusing or alignment problems, that may contribute to discomfort. An optometrist can evaluate your vision needs and recommend personalized solutions, from specialized lenses to lifestyle adjustments, helping you maintain clear, comfortable vision throughout your workday.
When to Seek Professional Help
Persistent computer vision syndrome symptoms may indicate a deeper visual issue that requires clinical evaluation. If blurred vision, headaches, or dry eyes continue despite regular breaks, it’s important to consult an eye care professional.
Early diagnosis can prevent long-term visual stress and help identify other conditions such as dry eye disease or focusing problems. Spokane residents who work long hours on computers or mobile devices should consider annual eye exams to protect their vision and maintain comfort throughout the day.
Comprehensive Eye Care in Spokane
Managing digital eye strain effectively often involves both prevention and personalized treatment. At Eyes for Life, our Spokane optometrists assess the impact of screen use, recommend the right eyewear, and create treatment plans that reduce long-term discomfort. From lifestyle guidance to customized lenses and dry eye therapy, our goal is to protect your vision and keep your eyes comfortable throughout the day.
By combining healthy visual habits with professional care, Spokane residents can reduce fatigue, protect their eyesight, and improve daily comfort in an increasingly digital world. Call Eyes for Life or book an appointment online today to protect your vision and keep your eyes feeling their best.
Sources
- American Optometric Association. Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain). AOA.org. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/computer-vision-syndrome.
- Joy J. Majority of U.S. Employees Experience Digital Eye Strain Symptoms, According to VSP Workplace Intelligence Report. Optometry Times. 2025 Mar 4. https://www.optometrytimes.com/view/majority-of-us-employees-experience-digital-eye-strain-symptoms-according-to-vsp-workplace-intelligence-report.
