Author: Smart Vision Optometry
Published: 8 June 2026 · Updated: 23 September 2026
At a Glance
Digital eye strain describes discomfort associated with screen tasks. Breaks and workstation adjustments may help, but persistent symptoms deserve assessment. At Smart Vision Optometry in Bondi and Mosman, an assessment can explore prescription needs, dry eye and focusing or eye-coordination difficulties. Management depends on the findings, rather than a single lens or treatment for everyone.
Symptoms and possible contributors
Tired, dry or sore eyes, intermittent blur and headaches can occur with prolonged close work. Glare, unsuitable glasses and reduced blinking may contribute. These symptoms do not establish a diagnosis; note when they start and whether rest helps.
Practical screen habits
Try regular breaks: the 20-20-20 reminder means looking roughly six metres away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. Blink normally, enlarge text and reduce reflections. Set the monitor at a comfortable distance with its top just below eye level. Avoid directing a fan at your face. These adjustments may improve comfort, but are not a guaranteed cure.
What an assessment can explore
Explain your work or study tasks, device use and usual screen distance. Bring your current glasses and describe any symptoms away from screens. Our eye tests and assessments can help clarify which further checks are appropriate.
If lenses are recommended, ask which working distances they are designed for and whether they are suitable for other activities. Compare the proposed lens options and coatings, total cost and follow-up arrangements before deciding.
Do blue-light glasses help?
A 2023 Cochrane review found that blue-light-filtering spectacles may offer no short-term advantage for computer-related eye strain compared with ordinary lenses. Effects on sleep remained uncertain. Blue-light filtering should not be presented as necessary protection or a guaranteed solution; it is separate from checking your prescription and working distance.
When to seek advice
Arrange an assessment if symptoms worsen or do not settle with rest. Do not assume new symptoms are caused by screens. For a practical discussion of desk-based work, read the SVO article Digital Eye Strain: A Consequence of Working From Home.
Digital Eye Strain FAQs
Book a digital eye strain assessment
Contact our practice to discuss appointment options: Bondi (02) 9365 5047 or Mosman (02) 9969 1600. Tell the team what is troubling you and ask about appointment length and fees.
Discuss Your Screen-Related Symptoms
Book an Eye Assessment
Sources
Healthdirect: Eye strain and Cochrane: Blue-light-filtering spectacle lenses. Checked 23 September 2026.