Why do you have tired eyes? Discover how to revitalize them

You wake up early, make breakfast, work in front of the screen for hours, then get on with household responsibilities… At the end of the day, your eyes are tired, and so are you.

Tired eyes are a common reality in modern life, especially when you spend so much time on activities that require visual concentration.

However, there are simple and natural ways to relieve this discomfort, without resorting to invasive solutions.

Eyestrain: What is it and why does it happen?

Do you know what eye fatigue is? It is when your eyes are exhausted, because the muscles and nerves in your eyes get tired from so much effort.

You don't have to have previous vision problems - it can happen to anyone, even young people. If you have a headache, difficulty focusing, eye pain or are in a bad mood, you could be suffering from eye fatigue.

What causes tired eyes?

While it may seem like tired eyes are just a result of a long day, there are more factors at play.

Excessive visual effort in poor environmental conditions

• Spending many hours in front of computer screens, tablets, smartphones, etc.
• Reading in low light
• When you don't blink enough
• Working in environments with excessive air conditioning or heating

Uncorrected refractive errors

• Myopia, astigmatism, hyperopia or presbyopia
• Poorly graduated glasses or contact lenses

Other causes

• Overwork, lack of sleep and poor stress management

People with Hashimoto's thyroiditis may experience dry eyes and eye strain as part of their symptoms, further aggravating the feeling of tired eyes.

Practical solutions to relieve tired eyes

You don't need to make drastic changes to feel relief.

• Take regular breaks : Apply the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to relax your eye muscles.
• Hydration : Make sure you drink enough water and, if necessary, use artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated.
• Eye massage : Closing your eyes and gently massaging in circular motions can relieve tension. The muscles around your eyes are delicate, but gentle pressure can stimulate circulation and relax your vision.
• Home remedies: cold slices of cucumber or potato, tea bags, chamomile or fennel infusion, have anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties that help relax and refresh tired eyes.
• Adjust lighting : Reduce screen glare and use soft ambient light instead of direct lighting to reduce the strain on your eyes and prevent vision fatigue.
• Protect your eyes from UV rays: Wear sunglasses when you go outside. Avoid direct sunlight, especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Bonus: Helps against wrinkles and dark circles.
• Eye-healthy foods : antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and spinach. Carrots, kale, and eggs are excellent sources of vitamin A, for strong, healthy eyes throughout the day.
• Good rest : Ideally, sleep between 7 and 8 hours each night.

Your vision is an essential part of your health and deserves the same care you give to the rest of your body. Make these habits part of your life and enjoy the clarity and freshness you need.

Important: This content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as medical advice. If you have any health conditions, please consult your doctor.

Sources:

• Eyestrain: Causes and Symptoms + 7 Natural Treatments
• Bates, William H., "Better Eyesight Without Glasses", 1920, p. 85.
• Huxley, Aldous, "The Art of Seeing", 1942, p. 120.
• Pinzón, Enrique, "Comprehensive Visual Health", 2005, p. 45.