Spending hours in front of a screen has become part of daily life for most people, but the discomfort that often follows—commonly called digital eye strain—is more than just an annoyance. If you live in Dallas, TX, and find yourself rubbing your eyes or squinting by the end of the day, it might be time to take those symptoms seriously.
Claire Y. Chu, M.D., a board-certified ophthalmologist and clinical instructor at UT Southwestern Medical School, brings years of experience diagnosing and treating complex eye conditions. Recognized on D Magazine’s Best Doctors List, Dr. Chu is dedicated to helping patients protect their vision from the hidden dangers of digital eye strain.
Recognizing the Signs of Digital Eye Strain
Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is caused by prolonged exposure to screens—computers, phones, and tablets. Common symptoms include:
- Eye fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Dry or irritated eyes
- Headaches
- Difficulty focusing
These issues are often linked to exposure to blue light, poor screen ergonomics, or uncorrected vision problems. While these symptoms may seem harmless, they can sometimes point to something more serious that requires professional care.
More Than Just Screen Fatigue
It’s easy to blame all vision problems on screen time, but not all eye discomfort is equal. Digital eye strain can sometimes mask underlying eye conditions that need medical attention. These may include:
- Dry eye disease, which can become chronic if untreated
- Refractive errors like nearsightedness or astigmatism
- Early signs of cataracts or glaucoma
- Eye alignment issues that affect how your eyes work together
Many underlying eye issues produce symptoms similar to digital eye strain, which is why only a comprehensive eye exam can uncover the root cause. The more our screen time increases, the more likely it becomes to dismiss serious symptoms as routine strain.
The Importance of Early Detection
Ignoring symptoms or self-diagnosing with blue light glasses isn’t enough. Routine eye exams are essential for distinguishing between basic eye strain and more complex issues. A comprehensive exam can reveal problems that might otherwise be missed, especially when digital eye strain is clouding the picture.
At Cornerstone Eye Associates in Dallas, TX, our team helps patients uncover the real cause behind their eye discomfort and offers tailored solutions to protect long-term vision health. With early diagnosis, many conditions are easier to manage or even reverse.
Managing Digital Eye Strain Symptoms in Dallas, TX
If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms of digital eye strain, don’t ignore them. What may seem like a minor issue could be masking something more serious. A comprehensive eye exam can help identify the root cause and guide you toward the right treatment.
Contact Cornerstone Eye Associates in Dallas, TX, to schedule your consultation. Call us at 214-862-3219 to move toward clearer, more comfortable vision.