Are your eyes feeling tired, dry, or strained after work or gaming? You’re not alone. With screen time at an all-time high, many men and women are noticing uncomfortable eye symptoms—but often don’t realize it’s time to see a doctor.
At Pacific Eye Surgeons, we help patients every day who delayed care until their symptoms became disruptive. The good news? Recognizing the signs early can help you protect your vision for the long term.
Why Regular Eye Care Matters
Your vision plays a crucial role in your daily quality of life. From reading to driving, working to relaxing, clear and comfortable eyesight is something we rely on—but often take for granted.
Regular eye exams don’t just update your prescription. They also help detect conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and digital eye strain before they affect your sight.
“We recommend a yearly checkup—even for people who don’t need glasses—because your eye health is just as important as your vision.”
– Dr. Robert Dirksen, Pacific Eye Surgeons
5 Signs It’s Time to Visit an Eye Doctor
Blurry or Distorted Vision
If you’re squinting to see road signs on the 101 or struggling to read your phone screen clearly, that’s a strong indicator that your eyes need professional attention. Blurry or double vision may be caused by:
- Refractive errors like nearsightedness or astigmatism
- Eye fatigue
- Uncontrolled health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
Don’t wait for your vision to worsen. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term complications.
Headaches That Start Behind the Eyes
Frequent headaches—especially after screen time or reading—can be a sign of unaddressed vision problems. If you’re spending long hours on a computer for work or gaming in the evenings, the strain on your eyes can lead to:
- Tension headaches
- Migraines
- Fatigue
If your headaches are worsening or affecting your daily routine, it’s time for a comprehensive eye exam.
Eye Pain or Discomfort
Eye pain is never something to ignore. From dry, itchy eyes to a stabbing sensation or constant burning, discomfort is your body’s way of signaling that something’s off.
Potential causes include:
- Digital eye strain from extended screen exposure
- Infections such as conjunctivitis
- Inflammation like uveitis
- Dry Eye Syndrome (especially common in Central Coast’s drier areas like Pismo Beach)
If over-the-counter drops don’t help—or the discomfort persists—call your nearest Pacific Eye location.
Trouble Seeing at Night
If you find yourself avoiding driving after dark or noticing halos and glare around headlights, it could indicate early cataracts or another degenerative condition.
Night vision problems may also stem from:
- Vitamin A deficiency
- Poor contrast sensitivity
- Uncorrected refractive errors
The sooner these issues are evaluated, the better your options for treatment and correction.
Eye Strain from Work or Gaming
Digital eye strain is on the rise—particularly among men between 25 and 45 who spend long hours in front of a screen. This includes remote workers, software developers, gamers, and office professionals.
Symptoms of digital eye strain include:
- Dry, irritated eyes
- Blurred vision that comes and goes
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty shifting focus from near to far
- Neck and shoulder tension
Don’t let your lifestyle put your long-term vision at risk. A visit to your eye doctor can provide personalized recommendations, including blue light filtering lenses or lifestyle adjustments
Common Questions About Eye Health and Exams
The Lifestyle Cost of Ignoring Eye Problems
Uncorrected vision issues can affect more than your ability to see clearly. They can impact your:
- Work performance and productivity
- Driving safety (especially at night)
- Social engagement and confidence
- Mental health—linked to discomfort, fatigue, and frustration
By being proactive with your vision health, you can maintain a high quality of life, enjoy your hobbies, and stay safe and confident in your daily routines.
