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If you’ve noticed that your headaches tend to kick in just after lunch, you’re not alone. Many people blame dehydration or stress, but there’s another often-overlooked culprit: eye strain. According to an experienced optometrist in Burwood, those persistent afternoon headaches could be your eyes waving a white flag.
Why Screen Time Is Tougher on You Than You Think
We’re more digitally dependent than ever. Between emails, meetings, scrolling, and late-night streaming, our eyes are constantly in use — but not in the way they were designed for. When you spend hours focusing on something up close, like a screen or phone, your eye muscles work overtime. Over the course of a day, this can lead to significant fatigue and tension.
Most people don’t realise just how little they blink while staring at a screen. Less blinking means less moisture, which contributes to dry, irritated eyes — a major factor in eye strain. Add poor posture or glare from your screen, and it’s a perfect recipe for those throbbing, behind-the-eye headaches that creep in around 3 p.m.
How to Spot the Signs Early
Eye strain-related headaches can sometimes feel different to regular tension or stress headaches. They often show up around the temples, forehead, or behind the eyes. You might also notice blurred vision, tired eyes, or a burning sensation. Sensitivity to light and difficulty focusing can add to the problem, especially if your job keeps you in front of a screen all day.
One simple clue? Your symptoms often improve when you take a proper break — not just switching from your laptop to your phone, but stepping away from screens altogether.
Easy Adjustments That Make a Big Difference
You don’t need to quit your job or throw your devices in the bin. Start with small, sustainable changes. The 20-20-20 rule is a go-to for a reason: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This relaxes your eye muscles and helps prevent strain from building up.
Make sure your screen is at eye level, and avoid sitting too close. Increase font sizes if you’re squinting. Anti-glare filters and blue light settings are worth trying, particularly if you work into the evening. And don’t underestimate the value of proper lighting — overhead fluorescents and harsh screen glare are a bad combo for your eyes.
Why an Eye Check Is Worth Your Time
If headaches and eye strain are becoming a regular part of your day, it might be time to see a professional. Regular eye exams can detect changes in your vision before they become obvious. In some cases, you might need a new prescription, or lenses designed specifically for screen use.
Even if your vision hasn’t noticeably changed, an optometrist can still help you pinpoint the source of discomfort and suggest tailored solutions. That small tweak — a different lens coating, updated prescription, or even a better understanding of your visual habits — could be the difference between powering through your afternoons or crashing by 2 p.m.
Your eyes work hard for you all day long. If you’re constantly battling headaches, give them the support they need. A few adjustments and a quick visit to your optometrist might be all it takes to start feeling sharper, clearer, and more comfortable — no headache required.