Asthenopia, also known as eye strain or visual fatigue, is a condition characterized by discomfort or tiredness in the eyes. This condition often arises from prolonged or intense use of the eyes, such as reading, using digital devices, driving, or performing other visually demanding tasks. Asthenopia is not considered a specific medical condition but rather a symptom of underlying eye or vision issues.
Symptoms of asthenopia may include eye pain, soreness, dryness, itching, redness, blurred or double vision, headaches, difficulty concentrating, and general fatigue. These symptoms tend to occur after extended periods of visual concentration and may worsen with continued use.
Various factors contribute to the development of asthenopia, including straining the eyes to focus on close objects for extended periods, poor lighting conditions, excessive glare or bright lights, uncorrected vision problems like nearsightedness or farsightedness, improper ergonomics (e.g., improper viewing distance or angle), or pre-existing eye conditions.
Treatment for asthenopia typically involves addressing the underlying causes. This may include taking regular breaks from activities involving intense visual focus, optimizing lighting conditions, reducing glare, adjusting working ergonomics, ensuring proper vision correction, using artificial tears to alleviate dryness, and practicing eye exercises or relaxation techniques.
If symptoms persist or worsen despite self-care measures, it is advisable to seek professional eye care to rule out any underlying eye conditions and receive appropriate treatment.
