What are the treatment methods for eye strain?
Nov 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, the treatment of eye strain mainly includes lifestyle adjustments, physical relief, medication, optical correction, and treatment of underlying causes. During treatment, it is important to maintain healthy eye-use habits. If symptoms persist despite adjustments, prompt medical evaluation is recommended to rule out underlying conditions. Regular eye examinations should be conducted, and a personal vision record should be established.
Under normal circumstances, treatment methods for visual fatigue mainly include lifestyle adjustments, physical relief, medication, optical correction, and treatment of underlying causes. Specific details are as follows:
1. Lifestyle Adjustments
Prolonged near-work and irregular sleep patterns are the main triggers of visual fatigue. It is important to control continuous eye usage by taking breaks every 40 minutes to look at distant objects for 5–10 minutes, allowing relaxation of the ciliary muscles. Ensure 7–8 hours of sleep daily and avoid staying up late. Include foods rich in vitamin A and anthocyanins—such as carrots and blueberries—in your diet to provide essential nutrients for the ocular surface.
2. Physical Relief
Physical methods can help relieve tension in the eye muscles and improve circulation around the eyes. Apply a warm towel at about 40°C to the eyes for 10–15 minutes per session to promote blood flow in the periocular area. Eye massage is also beneficial—gently press acupoints such as the temples and Jingming points with fingertips to alleviate muscle stiffness and reduce feelings of soreness and heaviness in the eyes.
3. Medication
Medications are used to address symptoms such as dry eyes and muscle spasms. For significant dry eye, sodium hyaluronate eye drops, polyethylene glycol eye drops, or carboxymethylcellulose sodium eye drops may be used under medical guidance. For ciliary muscle tension, medications such as compound tropicamide eye drops, anisodamine eye drops, or cyclopentolate eye drops can help relax the ciliary muscle.
4. Optical Correction
Uncorrected refractive errors or poor visual environments can worsen visual fatigue; therefore, optical methods should be used to optimize visual quality. Individuals with myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism should undergo professional refraction testing at a qualified institution and wear appropriate eyeglasses or contact lenses. When using electronic devices for extended periods, wearing blue-light-blocking glasses can reduce ocular surface irritation caused by blue light.
5. Treatment of Underlying Causes
In some cases, visual fatigue is caused by systemic diseases, which require targeted treatment. For example, hyperthyroidism may lead to exophthalmos (protruding eyes), resulting in eye strain, so active management of the primary condition is necessary. Hypothyroidism affects metabolism and may cause periorbital edema, requiring proper treatment of the underlying disease. Patients with blepharitis must first resolve the inflammation before visual fatigue can be completely alleviated.
During treatment, it's essential to maintain healthy eye-use habits. If symptoms persist despite adjustments, timely medical evaluation is recommended to rule out underlying conditions. Regular eye examinations and maintaining a personal vision record can effectively prevent recurrence of visual fatigue and support long-term eye health.
