Published: 15 May 2026 | Updated: 28 September 2026 | Author: Smart Vision Optometry
As screen use becomes embedded in daily life, optometrists are reporting an increase in patients presenting with symptoms of Digital Eye Strain, particularly among school-aged children.
From online learning platforms to smartphones and gaming devices, Australian families use screens for a range of near tasks. While technology provides clear educational and social benefits, eye care professionals warn that prolonged close-up work is placing sustained stress on developing visual systems.
Digital Eye Strain, sometimes referred to as computer vision syndrome, includes symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, neck tension and difficulty concentrating.
Gary Rodney, creator and founder of Smart Vision Optometry, a Master of Optometry, Behavioural Optometrist and Fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (FIAOMC) with more than 30 years of experience, says the issue is becoming increasingly common.
“Extended near focus places continuous demand on the accommodation and convergence systems,” Rodney said. “Over time, that sustained effort can lead to fatigue, discomfort and reduced visual efficiency.”
Children May Be More Vulnerable
While adults frequently report digital fatigue, practitioners are observing similar complaints in younger patients.
Jacquie Gattegno, principal senior optometrist at Eyes InDesign Smart Vision Optometry Bondi and an experienced Behavioural Optometrist and Orthokeratologist, says children often do not recognise the source of their discomfort.
“A child might describe sore eyes, headaches or simply say they’re tired,” Gattegno said. “Parents may assume it’s behavioural or related to attention, but visual strain is frequently a contributing factor.”
Unlike adults, children may hold devices significantly closer to their eyes and may not instinctively take breaks. Underlying focusing or eye coordination issues may also contribute to discomfort during sustained near work.
The Myopia Connection
Increased screen time has also been associated with rising rates of myopia. While research continues to examine the precise mechanisms, prolonged near work combined with reduced outdoor activity is widely considered a contributing factor.
Rodney discussed near work as one of several factors considered when assessing a child’s myopia risk.
“Myopia development is multifactorial,” he said. “Genetics play a role, but environmental factors such as sustained near work and limited outdoor exposure can influence the rate of progression.”
Evidence context — 28 September 2026: The original interview comments are retained. Screen discomfort does not itself demonstrate myopia progression. Outdoor-time evidence is stronger for reducing childhood myopia onset than for slowing established myopia; treatment and monitoring should be individualised.
More information about proactive myopia strategies is available at:
https://smartvisionoptometry.com.au/myopia-prevention/
Blue Light and Sleep Disruption
Beyond visual fatigue, evening screen exposure may also disrupt sleep cycles. Blue light emitted from digital devices can interfere with melatonin production, delaying sleep onset and reducing overall sleep quality.
Rodney noted that poor sleep can further compound visual stress.
“When children are fatigued, their visual endurance decreases,” he said. “Sleep hygiene and screen timing are just as important as optical solutions.”
Blue-light-filtering spectacles are not an established general treatment for digital eye strain. A 2023 Cochrane review of adult trials found they may offer no short-term eye-strain advantage over otherwise comparable lenses without the filter; sleep outcomes were uncertain. These findings should not be converted into a promise of benefit for children.
Practical Steps for Families
Optometrists recommend simple strategies to reduce digital strain:
- Use the 20-20-20 rule as a practical reminder: about every 20 minutes, look roughly 6 metres away for 20 seconds. Include longer breaks from sustained near work where practical; a fixed 10-minute break every 30 minutes is not presented here as a proven superior schedule.
- Use a comfortable viewing distance; a larger computer screen around an arm’s length away can reduce the need to hold a small device close.
- Position screens slightly below eye level.
- Ensure adequate room lighting to reduce glare.
- Encourage regular blinking to support tear film stability.
- Encourage regular outdoor activity, aiming for around 1–2 hours daily where practical, with appropriate sun protection. Outdoor time is not a substitute for prescribed myopia management.
Gattegno said small adjustments can significantly reduce symptoms.
“Simple habit changes often produce noticeable improvements,” she said. “We encourage families to create structured screen breaks, especially during homework sessions.”
Behavioural Optometry and Visual Efficiency
In some cases, Digital Eye Strain may reveal underlying visual efficiency issues such as poor eye teaming, tracking or focusing stamina.
Behavioural optometry assessments evaluate how effectively the eyes work together and process visual information, not just clarity of sight.
“If a child has subtle binocular vision difficulties, extended screen time amplifies those weaknesses,” Gattegno said. “Vision therapy can strengthen these systems and improve comfort.”
Clinical clarification: Treatment should follow a specific diagnosis. Targeted orthoptic exercises may help particular binocular conditions, such as convergence insufficiency, but vision therapy is not a universal treatment for screen discomfort, myopia or learning difficulties.
Rodney emphasised identifying the cause of recurring discomfort early.
“When visual systems are balanced and efficient, children can sustain near tasks with less fatigue,” he said.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Persistent headaches, avoidance of reading, frequent eye rubbing or declining school performance may warrant a comprehensive eye examination.
Rodney emphasised regular reviews. The appropriate interval depends on the child’s symptoms, findings and myopia-management needs.
“Vision changes can occur gradually,” he said. “Routine assessments allow us to detect small shifts before they become significant problems.”
For children already experiencing myopia progression, management strategies such as Orthokeratology may also be discussed.
More information about Orthokeratology is available at:
Orthokeratology at Smart Vision Optometry
Gattegno believes education remains key.
“Technology isn’t the enemy,” she said. “It’s about balance, awareness and ensuring the visual system is supported.”
A Balanced Approach to Modern Life
As digital devices remain central to education and social interaction, eye care professionals are encouraging families to adopt practical preventative habits rather than eliminate screens entirely.
Rodney said proactive care offers reassurance.
“With appropriate monitoring, lifestyle adjustments and, where necessary, myopia management strategies, we can support children’s visual health in a digital world,” he said.
Gattegno agreed that early conversations can make a meaningful difference.
“Parents shouldn’t wait until symptoms are severe,” she said. “Addressing visual comfort early can improve both wellbeing and academic performance.”
Editorial clarification: Treating an identified eye problem may improve comfort, but the interview comment should not be read as a guarantee of better academic performance. Learning or attention difficulties can have other causes and may need educational or medical assessment alongside eye care.
If you’re concerned about screen-related eye strain, headaches or visual fatigue — or would like a comprehensive assessment of how your eyes are coping with digital demands — we’re here to help.Book an appointment, or call the Bondi clinic on (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic on (02) 9969 1600. We are always happy to discuss whether Ortho-K might be a good fit for your family.
Evidence and related reading
Further sources include AAPOS guidance on children’s screen use, AAPOS information on vision therapy and orthoptics, the Cochrane blue-light-filter review and the IMI review of light and myopia.
Related interviews discuss computer vision syndrome and myopia projections and management. Persistent headaches, blur or reading discomfort warrant assessment. Seek prompt care for sudden vision loss, severe pain or new double vision.
Frequently asked questions
Does a child’s headache prove they have digital eye strain?
No. Headaches can have different causes. Describe the symptoms and seek an appropriate assessment rather than diagnosing from screen use alone.
What does the 20-20-20 rule mean?
About every 20 minutes, look at something roughly 6 metres away for at least 20 seconds. It is a practical break reminder, not a cure.
Is Ortho-K a routine treatment for screen discomfort?
No. Ortho-K requires a separate assessment of refractive needs, suitability, risks and lens-care requirements.
Discuss your child’s symptoms
Explore our digital eye strain service or contact the Bondi Beach practice or Mosman practice to arrange an appropriate appointment.
