Stress affects more than just your mood and energy; it can impact your eyes and vision, too. If you’ve noticed eye fatigue, blurred vision, or trouble focusing during stressful periods, a comprehensive eye exam can help determine whether stress is playing a role.  

Keep reading to understand what stress may be doing to your vision and what you can do about it. 

How stress impacts your eyes 

Chronic stress triggers physical changes in the body, including increased blood pressure and muscle tension. These changes can affect your eyes, causing symptoms like: 

• Eye strain and fatigue 
• Blurred vision 
• Headaches or eye discomfort 
• Dry eyes 

Stress can also interfere with your focus and make your eyes feel tired faster, especially during long hours at a computer or while using digital devices. 

The role of lifestyle medicine in eye health 

At Bella Vista Family Eye Care, Dr. Jackson integrates lifestyle medicine into eye care, addressing the root causes of chronic conditions that affect both overall health and ocular health. Lifestyle medicine focuses on sustainable changes in nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management to improve long-term wellness. 

One key pillar is stress management. Chronic stress can contribute to eye fatigue, blurred vision, and difficulty focusing. Mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and healthy coping strategies help your body—and your eyes—function more efficiently. 

Tips to protect your eyes during stressful times 

Stress doesn’t have to take a toll on your vision. Even on busy days, small adjustments can help you keep your vision sharp, reduce fatigue, and feel more comfortable. 

Take screen breaks

If your eyes feel tired after screen time, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This practice helps the focusing muscles in your eyes relax periodically throughout the day. 

Consider glasses or contact lenses designed for screen use

Your prescription for glasses or contact lenses may need an update, or lenses designed for prolonged screen time can help ease strain. Blue light glasses can reduce glare and eye fatigue during long hours in front of digital devices. 

Practice relaxation techniques

Breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching can help reduce muscle tension and lower eye strain caused by stress. 

Prioritize sleep and hydration

Getting enough rest and staying hydrated supports your eye health and overall wellness, making it easier to manage stress. 

Schedule regular eye exams

During an eye exam, our friendly, knowledgeable eye doctor in Rockford ensures your prescription is accurate, identifies any underlying eye conditions, and provides personalized guidance for reducing stress-related eye issues. 

When you should see an eye doctor 

If you notice persistent blurred vision, eye strain, or discomfort during periods of stress, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. Our team can check for changes in your vision, evaluate your glasses or contact lenses, and suggest solutions to help your eyes feel comfortable and see their best. 

Keep your eyes healthy and focused 

Your vision affects how you experience every part of your life, from reading and working to enjoying hobbies and time with family. Managing stress, using proper eyewear, and staying proactive with eye exams help keep your eyes comfortable and your vision sharp. Lifestyle medicine supports these healthy habits by addressing the root causes of stress and promoting overall wellness. 

Schedule an eye exam at Bella Vista Family Eye Care in Rockford today to protect your vision and discover how lifestyle changes can support your eye health.