Asthenopia, or visual fatigue, is a syndrome of complaints occurring as a result of overload on the visual system. Symptoms can include burning, itchy eyes, a feeling of sand under the eyelids, blurred vision, headaches and difficulty concentrating. It is most common in people who use computer screens, smartphones for long periods of time or read with inadequate lighting. Also contributing to the development of asthenopia are uncorrected visual defects, ill-fitting glasses or contact lenses and poor work ergonomics. The syndrome is not a disease in itself, but a symptom of overload and insufficient visual adaptation. Treatment consists of eliminating the causes - visual rest, correction of the visual defect, optimisation of the workstation, use of lubricating drops and adherence to the 20-20-20 rule (looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes). Untreated asthenopia can lead to chronic discomfort and reduced quality of life.
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