In our digital age, we spend hours every day staring at screens — whether it’s our phones, computers, or TVs. While convenient, this constant screen exposure may have hidden health effects. One commonly overlooked issue is dizziness caused by eye strain and prolonged screen time. If you’ve ever felt lightheaded, off-balance, or disoriented after long hours in front of a screen, you’re not alone.
In this article, Dr. Sajib Saha explains the link between digital eye strain and dizziness, how to recognize the symptoms, and what you can do to protect your balance and well-being.
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain (also known as computer vision syndrome) is a group of eye- and vision-related problems that result from prolonged use of digital devices. Symptoms may include:
- Blurred or double vision
- Dry or irritated eyes
- Headaches
- Eye fatigue
- Neck and shoulder pain
And in some cases — dizziness and balance issues.
How Eye Strain Leads to Dizziness
Your eyes and brain constantly work together to maintain balance and spatial awareness. When your eyes are strained or not functioning properly, it can confuse your brain’s signals — especially when you’re focusing on a fixed screen for long periods.
Here’s how it happens:
- Visual Fatigue: Long screen sessions tire out your eye muscles, leading to difficulty focusing.
- Vergence Dysfunction: The eyes may struggle to work together (converge), causing visual mismatch and dizziness.
- Light Sensitivity: Blue light from screens can increase sensitivity and trigger migraines or vertigo in sensitive individuals.
- Postural Imbalance: Poor screen ergonomics can also affect your neck and spine, indirectly disturbing your vestibular (balance) system.
Common Symptoms to Watch Out For
If you’re experiencing the following symptoms during or after screen use, your dizziness might be related to eye strain:
- Feeling lightheaded or faint
- Sense of imbalance or swaying
- Nausea or motion sickness-like sensation
- Eye pain with dizziness
- Difficulty concentrating or brain fog
Who Is at Higher Risk?
People more likely to experience dizziness from screen-related eye strain include:
- Office workers who sit at a computer all day
- Students attending online classes
- Individuals with pre-existing vestibular disorders, such as vertigo or Meniere’s disease
- People with uncorrected vision problems
- Migraine sufferers
Tips to Prevent Eye Strain and Dizziness
Dr. Sajib Saha recommends the following strategies to reduce screen-related dizziness:
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to relax your eye muscles.
2. Optimize Your Screen Setup
- Keep screens at eye level and about an arm’s length away
- Use anti-glare screens and good lighting
- Adjust screen brightness to match ambient light
3. Use Blue Light Filters
Install blue light reduction apps or use night mode on your devices, especially in the evening.
4. Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks
Dehydration and fatigue worsen eye strain. Take frequent breaks to walk and stretch.
5. Have Regular Eye Check-Ups
If you need glasses, wear them. Special lenses may reduce digital strain and improve focus.
When to See a Specialist
If you continue to experience dizziness, vertigo, or balance issues even after making lifestyle changes, it could indicate an underlying condition involving the inner ear or vestibular system.
Dr. Sajib Saha, an experienced ENT and balance disorder specialist in Dhaka, can help diagnose and treat the root causes of your symptoms. Early intervention is key to preventing chronic discomfort and complications.
Final Thoughts
In our screen-heavy world, dizziness related to eye strain and screen time is becoming more common — but it’s manageable. By understanding the connection and taking simple steps, you can protect your eyes, balance, and overall health.
If you’re struggling with unexplained dizziness or balance problems, book an appointment with Dr. Sajib Saha today. Let us help you find clarity and stability — both on-screen and off.