What causes eye pain using the computer?

Dryness: Dryness most likely, or, you are far-sighted and need glasses.

Dry eye usual culpri: "computer eye strain" is most often from dry eye. Our blink rate decreases up to 70% while on the computer. This causes evaporation of your tears and increases discomfort. The solution is either frequent breaks from the computer or supplementing with artificial tears. If you are over forty you made need a mild reading glass as well.

Dry eye: Dry eye is very common. I would try artificial tears frequently during the day, ointment at night, warm compresses 1-2 times a day, and omega-3 fatty acid supplements. If no improvement, see an eye doctor.

Focus and dryness: Usually the most common cause of eye pain with computer use is presbyopia or difficult focusing at near. Glasses can help with this. Also dryness can be exacerbated by computer use - be sure to use your artificial tears. Try the 20/20/20 rule: look up at least every 20 minutes at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds - works wonders.

Staring too long: When we stare at an object, we do not blink as often as normal. This can dry out the eyes, which can cause irritation and pain. As well, the light from computer monitors can be mildly irritating. Lastly, if you need prescription glasses or readers and are not wearing the right prescription or strength glasses, it will cause additional strain and irritation.