Life as a student or professional can be stressful, and sometimes that stress can have surprising effects on your body—including your eyes. When deadlines, exams, or the hustle and bustle of life near the University of Arkansas overwhelm you, you might experience symptoms such as eye strain, blurry vision, or dry eyes.
When you’re stressed, your body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones prepare your body for “fight or flight,” but they can also impact your eye health, especially if you deal with chronic stress. Stress can affect your eyes in a few different ways:
Eye strain and fatigue
Stress can cause you to tense up, and this tension often extends to the muscles around your eyes, leading to eye strain. Spending hours on screens can add to this strain, making your eyes feel sore, tired, or uncomfortable.
Blurred or double vision
Have you ever noticed your vision gets blurry when you’re stressed? That’s not uncommon. Stress can disrupt how your brain processes visual information, leading to occasional blurred or double vision. While temporary, this can signal that your eyes (and mind) need a break.
Dry eyes
Stress can also reduce tear production, leaving your eyes dry and irritated. Constantly reading or using screens can worsen your symptoms, creating a scratchy or burning sensation that makes it hard to focus on tasks.
Eye twitching
One of the most common signs of stress is eye twitching. These minor muscle spasms around the eye can be annoying, but they’re usually harmless. However, frequent twitching is often a sign that your body is telling you to slow down.
Sensitivity to light
Stress can make your eyes more sensitive to bright lights, including screen glare. This heightened sensitivity can lead to discomfort and even headaches, especially if you’re spending long hours under fluorescent lighting or in front of a computer.
Headaches and migraines
Stress is a common trigger for headaches and migraines, and eye strain can worsen these symptoms. Migraines can cause vision disturbances, including spots, flashes, or temporary vision loss in one eye.
Tips for reducing stress-related eye problems
Taking care of your eyes during stressful times can help you stay focused and comfortable. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Take screen breaks
The “20-20-20” rule is a great way to give your eyes a break from screen stress. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps relax your eye muscles and prevent strain.
Practice relaxation techniques
Deep breathing, stretching, and even short walks can reduce stress and relieve tension around your eyes. Consider practicing meditation or yoga to give your whole body (including your eyes) a break from daily stress.
Get enough sleep
Sleep is crucial for overall health, and it plays an essential role in eye recovery. Aim for 7–8 hours a night to help your eyes feel fresh and focused each day.
Stay hydrated
Hydration is key to preventing dry eyes. Drinking plenty of water supports tear production, keeping your eyes moist and comfortable.
Blink often
When stressed, people tend to blink less, leading to dry eyes. Make sure to blink fully, especially when using screens, to keep your eyes from feeling gritty or dry.
When to see an eye doctor
While stress can impact your eyes, chronic eye issues may have other causes. If you experience consistent eye pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity, or persistent dry eyes, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. At InVision Eye Care, we’re conveniently located near the University of Arkansas campus in Fayetteville, and we can help you find lasting relief and support your eye health during stressful periods. Schedule an eye exam in Fayetteville today!