When Screens Are the New Normal: Digital Eyestrain Solutions at DeNovo Eye

Screens have become a constant part of daily life. From working on computers and attending virtual meetings to scrolling on smartphones and streaming content at night, most people spend more hours than ever looking at digital devices. While technology makes life more convenient, it can also take a toll on your eyes. If you experience tired, dry, or strained eyes after screen use, you may be dealing with digital eyestrain.

What Is Digital Eyestrain?

Digital eyestrain, also known as computer vision syndrome, refers to a group of eye and vision problems caused by prolonged use of digital devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones. Unlike reading printed text, screens add extra visual challenges. Glare, blue light exposure, reduced blinking, and improper viewing distances all contribute to discomfort and visual fatigue.

Digital eyestrain is extremely common and can affect people of all ages, including children who spend hours on tablets for school and entertainment.

Common Symptoms of Digital Eyestrain

Digital eyestrain symptoms can vary from person to person, but often include:

•           Eye fatigue or soreness

•           Dry, irritated, or burning eyes

•           Blurry or fluctuating vision

•           Headaches, especially after screen use

•           Neck, shoulder, or back discomfort

•           Difficulty focusing when switching from screens to distance vision

These symptoms may be mild at first but can worsen over time without proper care and visual support.

Why Screens Put Extra Stress on Your Eyes

There are several reasons digital screens strain your eyes more than traditional reading:

•           Reduced Blinking: When using screens, people blink up to 50 percent less than normal. Fewer blinks mean tears evaporate faster, leading to dryness and irritation.

•           Blue Light Exposure: Digital devices emit blue light, which scatters more easily in the eye and can reduce contrast, making it harder to focus comfortably for long periods.

•           Improper Viewing Distances: Holding phones too close or positioning computer monitors incorrectly forces the eyes to work harder to maintain focus.

•           Uncorrected Vision Issues: Even small prescription changes or subtle focusing problems can become more noticeable during extended screen use.

Digital Eyestrain Solutions at DeNovo Eye

At DeNovo Eye, we take a personalized approach to diagnosing and managing digital eyestrain. Our goal is not just to relieve symptoms, but to address the underlying causes. A thorough eye exam is the first step. We evaluate your vision, eye health, and focusing ability to determine whether prescription updates or specialized lenses are needed for screen use.

Digital-specific lenses are designed to reduce eye strain by optimizing focus at intermediate and near distances. These lenses can help your eyes relax while working on computers or using handheld devices for extended periods.

Blue light–filtering lenses can reduce glare and improve visual comfort during screen use. These lenses are especially helpful for patients who spend long hours in front of screens or experience frequent headaches or eye fatigue.

If dryness is contributing to your symptoms, we can assess your tear quality and recommend targeted dry eye treatments. Managing dry eye can significantly improve comfort during screen time.

Find Relief From Screen-Related Eye Strain

Screens may be the new normal, but eye discomfort doesn’t have to be. Digital eyestrain is common, manageable, and often preventable with the right care and visual support. With comprehensive exams, customized lens solutions, and expert guidance, we help patients stay comfortable and productive in today’s digital world.

If screen time is leaving your eyes tired or strained, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at DeNovo Eye today. Visit our office in McKinney, Texas, or call (469) 317-2020 to book an appointment.