Are you suffering from Tired Eyes? These proven tips can help relieve and even stop them from happening!

Do you feel like your eyes are exhausted after a long day of looking at screens? Do you often suffer from eyestrain or headaches? If so, you’re not alone. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the causes of eyestrain and tired eyes, as well as tips on reducing symptoms and maintaining eye health. With the right approach, keeping your eyes healthy and avoiding unnecessary strain is possible.

We all use screens more than ever as a result of today’s busy lifestyle, which has resulted in a spike in numerous complaints, including tired eyes, headaches, and strained eyes. This can reduce our productivity and make even basic tasks more difficult. Fortunately, you can take some simple steps to reduce the stress on your eyes and avoid tiredness. In this article, we will cover some of the most effective and proven tips to help with tired eyes. These tips can include simple lifestyle changes, specialized eye products, and exercises to help you maintain healthy eyes. With this knowledge, you can reduce the strain on your eyes and enjoy improved well-being.

What are tired eyes?

Tired eyes are a common symptom of fatigue, stress, or overuse of electronic devices. A feeling of heaviness or soreness in the eyes, blurred vision, headaches, and difficulty focusing characterizes it. Other factors, such as eyestrain, neck tension, and insufficient sleep, can also cause tired eyes. When we’re tired, our eyes don’t have the energy to function as well as they should. Some of the symptoms include

1. Redness around the eyes. This is a common sign of tiredness. The blood vessels in and around the eye can become enlarged and irritated due to stress, lack of sleep, and other factors. Common signs of redness include dryness, itchiness, stinging, and burning sensations.
2. Burning sensation in the eyes. People who suffer from tired eyes may experience a burning sensation in the eyes, which can be pretty uncomfortable. This burning sensation may accompany other signs and symptoms such as redness, stinging, dryness, and itchiness. 
3. Difficulty focusing. One of the main symptoms of tired eyes is difficulty focusing. When our eyes don’t have the energy to focus, we may find it difficult to read, see details, or see anything at all. This can also cause problems when driving or using other instruments.
4. Blurred vision. Blurred vision is another common symptom of tired eyes. When our eyes are tired, they may struggle to adjust to changes in light and glare. This can make reading and viewing pictures difficult. 
5. Light sensitivity. One of the side effects of tired eyes is increased sensitivity to light. This means that even minimal exposure to light can be disruptive and cause pain or discomfort. When your eyes are tired, they have difficulty processing information from the retina, which is responsible for perceiving light. This can make it difficult to see in darkened environments or during daytime hours when there is a lot of sunlight.
6. Swollen eyelids. Swollen eyelids are a common side effect of tired eyes. When the eyes are strained, they can become swollen and tender. This can lead to an inability to close the eyelids fully, which in turn can cause blurred vision. Additionally, swollen eyelids may make it difficult to see in bright light or during daytime hours.
7. Vision Quality. When your eyes are tired, they may become blurry and difficult to see. This can be because your eyes cannot focus correctly or because of the increased sensitivity to light. Additionally, when your eyes are tired, you may experience a decrease in the quality of your vision. This can lead to difficulty reading or working on tasks that require close attention.
8. Headaches. Researchers have determined that one of the common symptoms of tired eyes and eyestrain is a headache. When the eyes are overloaded, they may produce too much pressure in the skull. This pressure can cause pain and inflammation, which can lead to headaches. Additionally, when your eyes are tired, they may not be able to focus properly, and this can lead to a headache.

 What Causes Eyestrain and Tired Eyes?

1. Excessive use of digital devices. The uncontrolled use of digital devices, such as smartphones and tablets, has become a common occurrence in today’s society. However, this can lead to tired eyes, which can be caused by blue light exposure from devices, staring at screens for long periods, and improper lighting. To get relief, it is important to take breaks from digital devices and make sure your eyes are getting enough rest. Additionally, you should make sure your devices are set to the correct brightness level and that your workspace is adequately lit.
2. Insufficient or excessive light can cause tired and strained eyes. Prolonged exposure to bright light can cause the iris to contract, leading to sore, tired eyes. Inversely, when there is not enough light, the eyes have to work harder to focus, and this can also lead to eye fatigue. When possible, try and keep the light in your environment at a comfortable level to avoid strain on your eyes.
3. Poor vision correction can lead to tired eyes, indicating a more serious eye condition. Without proper vision correction, the strain on the eyes from everyday tasks can become unbearable and lead to further deterioration of vision. Make sure to get an eye exam regularly and keep up with the recommended vision correction to maintain healthy eyes.
4. Uncorrected astigmatism can be a major cause of tired eyes. Astigmatism is a refractive error (not a disease) of the eye which causes blurred vision and, if left uncorrected, can lead to eyestrain and fatigue. It is crucial to check eyes regularly to ensure any astigmatism is appropriately corrected to prevent tired eyes and other vision issues.
5. Sitting in an improper posture. Working from home has led to many people sitting in an improper posture for long periods. This can cause several issues, including tired eyes and neck pain. To avoid these issues, it is vital to ensure that you are sitting in an ergonomic position with your computer at eye level, your elbows close to the body, and your feet flat on the floor. It is also essential to take regular breaks throughout the day to give your eyes and body a break.
6. Prolonged staring at the same object. Staring at the same thing for an extended period can cause tired eyes. This is because the eyes cannot move around, and they become strained from staring at one object. As a result, the eyes may become tired, dry, and uncomfortable. To avoid this, it is essential to take frequent breaks when looking at an object and to look away every few minutes. Additionally, keeping the eyes hydrated by drinking plenty of water can also help reduce the risk of tired eyes.
7. Reading in dim light or inadequate lighting. Reading in dim light or inadequate lighting can be a major cause of tired eyes. When the eyes do not receive enough light, they can tire quickly as they struggle to focus on the page. Additionally, any glare from surrounding lights can strain the eyes even further. To avoid this, it is essential to read in a well-lit environment or use a desk lamp to provide adequate lighting for reading.
8. Lack of proper sleep hygiene can lead to various health issues, including tired eyes. Poor sleep hygiene can cause an individual to get less of the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep each night, decreasing alertness and increasing fatigue. Without proper rest, eyes can become dry, red, and irritated due to a lack of lubrication and may also be more prone to infections.
9. Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, including tired eyes. Allergies can lead to inflammation of the eyes, reducing the amount of fluid available to the eyes. This can lead to dryness and discomfort in the eyes, as well as fatigue and pain. To avoid tired eyes from allergies, it is important to keep track of any changes in your vision and consult a doctor if these changes are severe.
10. Dehydration can cause several problems, including tired eyes. When the body is dehydrated, the kidneys cannot filter and remove toxins from the blood. This can lead to increased toxins and metabolic waste in the blood, which can irritate and fatigue the eyes. To avoid tired eyes from dehydration, it is crucial to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day and to avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine late at night.
11. Stress and anxiety can lead to several health issues, including tired eyes. Stress and anxiety can cause an increase in cortisol levels, which can disrupt the way the eyes work. Additionally, stress and anxiety can lead to a decrease in blood flow to the eyes, which can cause fatigue and pain. To avoid tired eyes from stress and anxiety, it is important to find ways to reduce stress and anxiety levels and to get adequate sleep.
12. Nutritional Deficiencies. A number of nutritional deficiencies can lead to tired eyes. When the body does not have the correct nutrients, it can struggle to function properly. This can lead to a decrease in energy levels and an increase in fatigue. To avoid tired eyes from a lack of nutrients, it is essential to eat a balanced diet and avoid overeating sugar or processed foods.
13. Certain medications can also cause tired eyes. Certain types of antidepressants, for example, can lead to an increase in fluid retention in the eyes. This can decrease the amount of water available to the eyes, which can lead to dryness and discomfort. To avoid this, discussing any medications you are taking with a doctor or pharmacist is important before beginning treatment.
14. Underlying Medical Condition. Tired eyes can sometimes be a symptom of an undiagnosed underlying medical condition. Common causes of tired eyes include dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, and other vision-related problems. Furthermore, conditions such as thyroid disease, autoimmune disorders, and allergies can also cause tired eyes. It is important to speak with a medical professional if you are experiencing tired eyes in order to determine if an underlying medical condition is a cause.
15. Other Factors (air pollution, sunlight, etc.). Various factors, including air pollution and sunlight, can cause tired eyes. Pollution of the air is a major contributor to the feeling of tired eyes, as the irritants in the air can cause inflammation and dryness in the eye area. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can also cause tired eyes, as UV radiation can cause damage to the delicate skin around the eyes.

Many factors can contribute to eyestrain and fatigue, but the most common culprits are screen time and strained neck muscles. When we’re constantly looking at screens, our eyes start to strain. And when our necks are constantly strained, it causes tension in the neck and eye muscles.

How to Prevent Tired Eyes from Happening

When it comes to preventing tired eyes, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Fortunately, there are many steps you can try to reduce the severity of symptoms. While these strategies may not wholly prevent tired eyes, they can certainly help reduce the likelihood of them occurring.

1. Get enough sleep every night. Getting enough sleep every night is key to avoiding “tired eyes.” A lack of proper sleep can lead to various health issues, including dry, itchy, and red eyes, as well as blurry vision. In addition to making sure you get 7-8 hours of sleep per night, it is also important to limit your exposure to blue light from screens in the hours leading up to bedtime. This will help you fall asleep more quickly and provide your eyes with the rest they need.
2. Take frequent breaks when using digital screens. Staring at a digital screen for extended periods of time can lead to tired eyes, headaches, and eyestrain. To avoid these, it is important to take frequent breaks from looking at digital screens. Taking a break every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds can help reduce the strain on your eyes and body. Additionally, looking away from the screen and focusing on something in the distance can help relax your eyes and give them a much-needed break. 
3. Exercise your eyes. Adding eye exercises into your daily routine can help improve blood circulation to the eyes, reduce strain, and promote better vision health. An exercise known as palming can be the perfect solution. Palming involves sitting quietly and covering your eyes with your palms for a few minutes, during which time you should focus on taking deep breaths. Additionally, it is helpful to look up, down, and to the sides while keeping your eyes still, as this increases circulation and helps to relax the eye muscles.
4. Adjust your lighting. Adjusting the lighting in your environment is a key component of reducing tired eyes. The brightness and intensity of the light should be kept at a comfortable level, and it is best to avoid reading in dim light or using electronic screens close to bedtime. Having adequate lighting in the room can also help reduce eye strain and tiredness.
5. Avoid blue light from electronic screens. Most modern devices, such as computers, tablets, smartphones, or even LED lights, emit blue light, which can be harmful to the eyes. To avoid tired eyes, try to limit your exposure to blue light from electronic screens before bedtime. This means avoiding devices with screens that emit blue light, such as smartphones and laptops. You can turn on blue light filters on these devices to reduce the levels of blue light that is being emitted. If your device does not provide such a setting, you can try using blue light filtering glasses. These can help safeguard your eyes from the adverse effects of blue light.
6. Turn on the Dark Mode theme on your device. Using dark mode on your device can significantly reduce eye strain and fatigue. By inversing the colors on your screen, the dark mode can help to reduce the amount of light emitted from your device. Bright lights are known to cause disruption in our circadian rhythms, impair visual performance, and cause eye strain. Turning on the dark mode theme on your device can help to reduce these effects, allowing you to use digital devices for longer periods with less discomfort.
7. Use artificial tears or lubricating drops if needed. Using artificial tears or lubricating drops can be a great way to relieve tired eyes. These products help reduce friction between the eyelids and the eyes while also providing added moisture and lubrication. They can help to reduce eye strain and fatigue, making it easier to stay alert, focused, and productive throughout the day. Artificial tears are available over the counter at most drug stores and can provide long-lasting relief for those suffering from tired eyes.
8. Blink often to keep your eyes moist and lubricated. One of the best ways to reduce uncomfortable symptoms of tired eyes is to blink often. Blinking helps keep your eyes lubricated and moist, which prevents dryness and redness. Taking frequent breaks throughout the day and blinking more often can help to ease the strain on the eyes and help prevent further discomfort. Additionally, using eye drops or artificial tears can help reduce tired eye symptoms.
9. Use eye masks when sleeping. When worn while sleeping, eye masks block out unwanted light and allow for a deeper sleep. Eye masks are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to use. Slip them on before you go to sleep and enjoy the benefits. Not only do eye masks help reduce eye fatigue, but they also help you feel more rested and relaxed during sleep.
10. Change your diet/consume foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3s. Research has shown that consuming foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3s can help reduce the symptoms of tired eyes. Eating foods such as blueberries, kiwi, salmon, and avocados can help reduce inflammation in the eyes and provide essential nutrients that can help reduce fatigue. In addition to eating these key food items, drinking plenty of water is a must throughout the day, as it is recommended to keep your body hydrated and help flush out toxins.
11. Avoid smoking & alcohol consumption. Smoking and drinking alcohol can both have a negative effect on the eyes, leading to tiredness and difficulty focusing. Smoking has been shown to contribute to the development of cataracts and can cause problems with vision clarity. Alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate eye fatigue. By avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, individuals can reduce their risk of developing eye-related problems and preserve their vision health.
12. Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect yourself from UV rays. Studies have shown that UV rays can cause damage to our eyes and can contribute to tiredness and strain. Wearing sunglasses outdoors can help protect our eyes from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Additionally, sunglasses can help reduce glare, further reducing strain on our eyes. Make sure to choose a pair of sunglasses with lenses that provide UVA and UVB protection to ensure your eyes’ best protection.
13. Eat a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Eating various nutrient-dense foods will help keep your eyes nourished and energized. Fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help promote eye health and reduce the risk of certain eye diseases. Eating a balanced diet can also reduce the risk of developing dark circles or bags under the eyes, which are often associated with fatigue. Eating a healthy diet is an amazing way to keep your eyes healthy and energized.
14. Drink plenty of water. If you want to avoid tired, irritated eyes, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps to prevent water retention, which can cause puffiness around the eyes. In addition, drinking enough water ensures adequate circulation of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. This helps to keep eyes healthy and can reduce the strain that can lead to tired eyes. Make sure to get your daily water intake, and you’ll notice a difference in your eyes’ appearance and comfort.
15. Environment factors. Working in excessively dry or dusty environments can have a negative impact on the eyes, leading to tiredness, redness, and irritation. Preventative measures must be taken to protect the eyes in these environments, such as wearing protective eyewear and keeping the area well-ventilated. Consider getting an air purifier in your home to help reduce the number of dust particles and allergens (like pollen) in the air. For dry environments, try a humidifier that can help to soothe and protect the eyes.

How to Relieve Tired Eyes Symptoms

Once you start to experience tired eyes, there are some things you can try out to relieve the symptoms. First of all, make sure your eyes are well-hydrated. When our eyes are dehydrated, they can’t function as well, and we end up experiencing more eyestrain and fatigue. Secondly, try using an eye cream or lotion. These products not only help to soothe the skin around your eyes, but they also help to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.

1. Use a cold compress to reduce inflammation. Many people have turned to cold compresses as a simple, natural remedy to reduce inflammation and soothe tired eyes. Applying a cold compress on and around the eye area helps reduce puffiness and swelling while relieving tired eyes’ discomfort. When using a cold compress, it is vital to ensure that it is not too cold, as this could cause further damage to the sensitive skin around the eyes.
2. Use warm compresses to relax the muscles around your eyes. Using a warm compress, such as a warm cloth or eye mask, on the area around your eyes can be an effective way to reduce tiredness in your eyes. The warmth helps relax the muscles around the eyes and can relieve fatigue and discomfort. Additionally, it can help to improve blood circulation and reduce puffiness around the eyes. While regular application of a warm compress may not wholly cure tired eyes, it can help reduce the symptoms and provide some comfort.
3. Massage your temples and eyelids gently. Massaging your temples and eyelids can be a great way to relieve tired eyes. Stimulating the pressure points around your eyes can help reduce the strain of staring at a computer screen all day and can help relax facial muscles that may have become tense from stress. Gently rubbing your temples and eyelids in a circular motion can also help improve blood circulation and reduce puffiness around the eyes. Taking regular breaks to massage your temples and eyelids can make a world of difference for anyone feeling fatigued from long work hours.
4. Blink regularly to lubricate the eyes. Blinking helps lubricate the eyes and reduce the strain caused by staring at screens for long periods. It also helps keep the eyes hydrated and prevents them from drying out, leading to eye discomfort, blurred vision, and other eye-related issues. To keep your eyes healthy and reduce fatigue, make sure you take regular breaks and remember to blink every few seconds.
5. Take frequent breaks from screens and bright lights. It is no secret that staring at screens and being exposed to bright lights for extended periods can be tiring for the eyes. To reduce visual fatigue and discomfort, experts recommend taking frequent breaks from digital devices and intense lighting. To do this, take a few minutes away from the screen every hour, and spend time outside in natural light. Furthermore, adjusting the brightness of the screen to a comfortable level is an easy way to help with eye strain
6. Adjust your monitor settings to reduce glare and brightness. If you’re experiencing tired eyes and headaches, it might be time to adjust your computer monitor settings. Glare and brightness can cause eyestrain and other physical symptoms, so consider reducing the amount of reflected light coming off your screen. Lowering the brightness level can also help reduce eyestrain, as it can increase the size of text and icons.
7. Avoid rubbing or pressing on your eyes. It’s natural to want to massage or press on your eyes when you feel tired, but doing so can cause further irritation and discomfort. In addition, it may exacerbate any existing conditions, such as dry eye syndrome or blepharitis. To avoid this, try not to touch your eyes and use artificial tears or eye drops to refresh them. If the problem persists, talk to your doctor about possible treatments that may help relieve your tired eyes.
8. Rest your eyes for 15 minutes. If you find yourself feeling extra tired, consider taking a more extended break or even setting the alarm to remind yourself to rest your eyes every few hours
9. Visit a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen. If you are experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms of tired eyes, it is crucial to visit a doctor. Tired eyes can be caused by various underlying factors and can only be adequately diagnosed and treated by a medical professional. It is vital to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if your eyes feel strained or uncomfortable for an extended period of time. Any changes in vision should also be reported to your doctor for further evaluation.

Watch a Summary of This Article

Conclusion

Adopting these easy practices can assist in minimizing the chances of encountering eyestrain and fatigue. Should these issues arise, these tips may also provide some reprieve. If you are experiencing tired eyes that don’t improve with self-care measures or if they become more severe over time, consider consulting with a doctor about the possibility of eye fatigue or other underlying conditions. 

Please let us know if these tips have helped you in the comments below!