Eye strain is a condition that occurs when the eyes have been used for a long period of time. It often occurs after an extended time spent focusing the eyes, such as when reading or using a computer, which can cause the eyes to become tired or uncomfortable. Overly bright or dim light may also contribute to the conditions. Eye strain can cause a variety of symptoms, but one of the most common among individuals is a light headache concentrated in the temples.
Treatment for an eye strain headache may not always be required, particularly since these type of headaches do not tend to be pounding or especially painful or distracting. For some people, simply resting their eyes by closing them for a short period of time may make the headache subside quickly. Making sure to take regular breaks and changing the position of the eyes may also help the headache go away without the need for additional treatment.
If an eye strain headache does not go away on their own after taking a break from the activity, it may be relieved with a massage. Firmly massaging the temples in a circular motion with the fingertips may take away some of the pressure. Keeping the eyes closed during the massage may make it more effective by also giving the eyes an additional rest from the strain.
Lighting tends to be one of the key culprits that may cause an eye strain headache. Treating these headaches may be accomplished by changing the lighting in which one is reading or otherwise using his or her eyes. Dim light may contribute to eye strain while one is reading or performing tasks, so switching to an area with brighter light may make headaches go away in a brief period of time. For eye strain brought on by extended use of a computer, adjusting the computer’s brightness and contrast settings may be effective at treating headache.
Even without treatment, an eye strain headache tends to be more of a nuisance than a serious health risk. Treatment with the use of medications is usually not necessary because changing the visual circumstances is often enough to quickly make the headache go away, as opposed to headaches brought on my underlying medical conditions. If eye strain and accompanying headaches occur frequently and do not subside quickly by reducing visual activity, it may be a sign that eye strain is not what is actually the cause of the headaches and further medical attention may be needed.
