Tired eyes: what are they?
Many people complain of eye strain, of having heavy, tired eyes. Several reasons can cause this: lack of sleep, allergies, or excessive blue light. Thus, we can look dejected with swollen, strained, itchy eyes and feel as if there's sand in the eye!
One of the best remedies to soothe your eyes is a good night's sleep or, why not, a short nap! Don't forget to take breaks when you're in front of a screen and wear appropriate computer glasses.
1. Beware of allergies
Do you have allergic tendencies? Anyone who suffers from allergies knows that they cause itching, tearing, and irritation. This reaction is caused by histamine, released by your allergen sensitivity. Histamine is an immune response and causes blood vessels to dilate. This causes sometimes merciless itching in the nose, mouth, or eyes that allergy sufferers know all too well.
Increased blood flow and itching caused by allergies can lead to swelling of your eyelids. This is why your red eyes are also swollen and tired.
For all people sensitive to various pollens, it is preferable to try to work indoors and to cover your eyes well with curved protective glasses (sunglasses or anti-fog). In any case, talk to your doctor who will advise you best.
2. Take breaks from your screens
Teleworking and the digital age are taking their toll on our visual health. Although technological progress offers various advantages, the many hours spent in front of all kinds of screens weaken our eyes. The influx of blue light and close-up work are unnatural and cause headaches, dry eyes... Combining short breaks with your long hours in front of the screen will help you relieve the discomfort associated with digital eye strain.
The famous 20-20-20 rule
The 20-20-20 rule is perfectly suited for short breaks. Every 20 minutes in front of the screen, look up and look 20 meters away (avoid other screens!) for 20 seconds. This 20-second break allows the eye muscles to relax because the eye is in a resting position when looking into the distance.
If you can, feel free to relax in your chair or stand for a few moments. Closing your eyes, stretch your neck, arms, legs... A few yoga poses or a micro-nap for some and you'll be fresh and efficient in front of your computer again without visual fatigue!
3. How about a compress?
Cucumber slices, tea bags, or compresses? Grandmothers' remedies still and always used to relax the eyes and take care of oneself.
Alternating hot and cold compresses is often discussed. Heat will relax the palpebral muscles while a cold compress will increase blood circulation. This solution is certainly easy and effective for helping overworked eyes, but it is temporary. It is important to identify the real cause of this eye strain: visual problem, incorrect correction, excessive screen use...
4. Hydrate your eyes
Dry eyes are also a major cause of your sleepy eyes. Dry eyes or dry eye syndrome can come from many factors: diet, age, medication...
In front of screens, we are absorbed and "forget" to blink. This step is crucial because it allows the hydration and lubrication of the cornea and other visual organs. Regularly and with each break, blink exaggeratedly. It is a natural, simple, and infallible way to keep our eyes moist and clean.
You don't think about it or it's not enough? Opt for physiological serum. A few drops in the eye will offer great relief. For some, this will not be enough, in which case, consult your ophthalmologist who will prescribe an adequate eye drop.
Above all, remember to drink plenty of water. Generally, in cases of dehydration, the first organs affected are the eyes and skin, which take on a dull and withered appearance. Good water consumption is beneficial not only for your eyes but also for your general health.
5. Check your eyesight
You have been wearing your corrective glasses for a long time and have not had an eye exam for 2-3 years. Chances are your prescription is outdated and is the cause of your fatigue. In general, vision changes over time and your correction may no longer meet your current needs.
A comprehensive eye and vision exam is recommended every two years. An ophthalmologist or eye care professional can assess your problems and find a solution: a visual prescription, orthoptic rehabilitation, or other recommendations...
Have you never worn corrective glasses? It is possible that your vision has changed, your visual fatigue may be a signal: your eyes are now tired because they need appropriate glasses to see correctly. In all cases, for more prevention and comfort, choose anti-glare blue light glasses.
To find out, visit an optician or an ophthalmologist for an eye exam.
