Constant screen time is part of life – but that doesn’t mean tired, strained eyes have to be your new normal. At Custom Eyes Optometry, Dr. Michael Bourgoin and Dr. Jean Yoo help patients across Costa Mesa and Newport Beach find real relief.
With over 30 years of experience each, our eye doctors are passionate about offering meaningful, personalized care – especially when it comes to modern visual challenges like digital eye strain.
You’re not just tired – your eyes are overworked
Whether you’re deep into spreadsheets, gaming, or scrolling until bedtime, digital screens are part of the daily grind. But your eyes weren’t designed for this.
Prolonged screen time can lead to Computer Vision Syndrome – also known as digital eye strain. If you’ve ever ended your day with gritty, tired eyes or a throbbing headache, it might be more than just fatigue.
Signs your eyes need a break
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, your eyes might be asking for help:
- Dry, irritated eyes
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Frequent headaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Trouble focusing after screen use
- Sensitivity to light
These issues can build up gradually, particularly for professionals working on screens all day or kids learning online. And left unaddressed, they can begin to affect your quality of life.
Why digital screens push your eyes to the limit
Here’s what’s happening under the surface:
- Blinking slows down. We blink 50% less when using screens, drying out the eyes faster.
- Focusing becomes harder. Digital text lacks the sharpness of printed material, making your eyes work overtime.
- Blue light contributes to strain. It scatters easily, reduces contrast, and leads to fatigue. Some research suggests it may even contribute to long-term retinal changes.
So many patients come in thinking screen fatigue is just something they have to live with. But there are often simple, effective solutions that can truly improve comfort.
Simple ways to reduce eye strain for Costa Mesa patients
The good news? You can take steps today to make screen time more comfortable:
- The 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a break. - Blink more
It sounds simple, but blinking helps hydrate the eyes. For persistent dryness, Dr. Bourgoin often recommends targeted dry eye treatment or lubricating drops for long screen sessions. - Adjust your setup
Keep your screen an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level. This helps reduce both visual and muscular strain. - Use blue light lenses
We offer prescription and non-prescription blue light lenses designed to filter out harsh wavelengths and reduce glare. Dr. Yoo has a special interest in contact lenses and often helps patients find options that combine screen protection with all-day comfort. - Improve your lighting
Avoid harsh overhead lights. Soft, indirect lighting creates a screen-friendly environment that’s easier on your eyes.
When it's time for expert help at Custom Eyes Optometry
If you've tried these strategies and still end your day with sore, blurry eyes, it’s time to see the professionals. At Custom Eyes Optometry, our eye doctors don’t believe in one-size-fits-all care.
A comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Bourgoin or Dr. Yoo starts with understanding your unique visual habits. They’ll evaluate your prescription, eye health, and screen use, then build a custom plan to relieve your symptoms.
That might include:
- Blue light lenses or filters
- Specific eye drops
- A tailored vision therapy plan if your eye muscles are struggling to coordinate
Dr. Bourgoin, who brings a deeply personal perspective to healthcare after surviving stage 4 lymphoma and two kidney transplants, believes strongly in helping patients protect their long-term wellness – starting with their vision.
Your eyes deserve a break – and expert care
Don’t let digital eye strain affect your sleep, your productivity, or your mood. Call Custom Eyes Optometry at 949-646-4949 or book an eye care appointment online today.
Whether you need an updated prescription, screen-friendly contact lenses, or trusted guidance from two doctors who’ve been serving the Costa Mesa and Newport Beach communities for over 30 years – we’re here for you.