Zoom-Ready But Vision-Fatigued: Understanding Digital Eye Strain

In today’s always-on work culture, we’re meeting deadlines, attending back-to-back video calls, and switching between screens more than ever. While we’ve mastered the art of appearing Zoom-ready at a moment’s notice, our eyes are quietly bearing the brunt of this digital overload.

What is Digital Eye Strain?

Digital eye strain, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome, is a collection of vision-related symptoms caused by prolonged screen exposure. We’ve entered an era where video calls, endless tabs, and screen multitasking are the new normal. Welcome to the age of digital eye strain—a condition that’s becoming increasingly common, yet still widely misunderstood.

From Boardrooms to Breakout Rooms: The Shift to Screens

The average professional today spends upwards of 9 hours a day in front of digital devices. Add to that the casual scrolling, Netflix nights, and doomscrolling breaks—and we’ve created an environment where our eyes rarely get to rest.

Prolonged screen exposure has led to a spike in:

• Blurry vision

• Dry and itchy eyes

• Headaches

• Neck and shoulder pain

• Trouble focusing between near and far distances

  
  

This isn’t just discomfort—it’s a signal. Our eyes are evolving in real time to accommodate this new work culture, and not necessarily for the better.

The Rise of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)

Also known as Digital Eye Strain, CVS isn’t a single issue but a cluster of vision-related symptoms caused by prolonged screen time.

Here’s what’s contributing to it:

• Reduced blinking during screen time (we blink 66% less!)

• Improper screen distances and angles

• Prolonged blue light exposure from screens disrupting circadian rhythms

• Lack of regular eye exams due to remote work setups

  
  

Zoom Fatigue and Your Eyes: It’s Not Just a Skin Concern

Constant video calls don’t just make us hyper-aware of our appearance—they force our eyes to focus at a fixed distance for long durations. Unlike natural conversations where our eyes naturally shift and rest, virtual meetings demand sustained, intense focus.

This can lead to:

• Focus fatigue

• Difficulty shifting to reading or driving after work

• Increased dependency on glasses (especially in the 25–45 age group)

  
  

Eye Health in the Age of Hybrid Work: What You Can Do

How to Prevent Digital Eye Strain in a Hybrid Work Environment

• 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

• Blue-light filtering lenses: Not a gimmick—these can help reduce glare and fatigue.

• Optimised lighting: Ensure you’re not working under harsh overhead lights or directly in front of windows.

• Regular eye check-ups: Your screen time has changed. Your prescription might have too.

  
  

Is Your Work Setup Really Eye-Safe?

Your ergonomic chair may be posture-friendly—but what about your screen height and lighting? A quick assessment by an optometrist can help you understand how your workstation might be silently contributing to vision strain.

The Importance of Eye Care in Our Digital World

At S.R. Gopal Rao, we’re seeing more clients come in with symptoms linked directly to work-from-home lifestyles. Through in-depth eye exams and a deep understanding of screen-related fatigue, we help tailor solutions—from occupational lenses to work-friendly frames that support your vision, not strain it.

Let’s Keep Your Eyes as Sharp as Your Pitch Decks

Book an appointment, talk to our optometrists, or just stop by to understand how your digital life may be changing your eyes—one screen at a time.

Conclusion: Prioritise Your Eye Health

In this fast-paced digital age, our eyes deserve the same attention we give to our work. Let’s prioritise eye health and ensure that we can continue to perform at our best, both on-screen and off. By taking proactive steps, we can enjoy our digital lives without compromising our vision.