Elsabe de Koker Optometrists News Feed

Stress is a common part of daily life, but chronic stress can have long-term negative effects on your body—including your eyes. Stress triggers the "fight or flight" reflex, dilating pupils to enhance vision. Prolonged stress keeps pupils dilated, potentially causing several eye problems.

How Stress Can Affect Your Eyes

• 👁️ Eye Strain: Often caused by prolonged computer or screen usage.
• 🌫️ Blurred Vision: Mild cases may occur during periods of stress.
• 💧 Dry or Watery Eyes: Stress can disrupt tear production balance.
• ⚡ Eye Twitching: Spasms in one or both eyes are common under stress.
• 💡 Light Sensitivity: Stress may cause discomfort under bright light.
• 🌀 Eye Floaters: Tiny spots or shapes drifting across vision may appear.

How to Relieve Eye Strain from Stress

• 🏃‍♂️ Regular Exercise: Helps relieve muscle tension and promotes overall relaxation.
• 🧘 Deep Breathing: Calms the nervous system and reduces stress-induced eye strain.
• 💆 Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, stretching, or gentle eye exercises can alleviate discomfort.

Managing stress proactively not only improves your overall well-being but also protects your eyes. Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can reduce eye-related symptoms and maintain healthy vision.