Digital fatigue is a complex functional disorder that occurs as a result of prolonged and intense exposure to screens. It is a multifactorial syndrome affecting the visual apparatus, oculomotor system, visual processing in the cortex, as well as neuroendocrine mechanisms regulating the circadian rhythm. Modern lifestyle, while it greatly facilitates work, also leads to the development of new professional problems. Additionally, computer use and high-energy LED lighting have contributed to digital fatigue becoming one of the most common subclinical conditions today.
Modern screens emit light with a pronounced component of the short-wavelength visible spectrum (around 450 nm). Although these wavelengths are not “harmful” in the classical UV-radiation sense, they possess properties that accelerate visual fatigue.

Short-wavelength blue light undergoes Rayleigh scattering, leading to increased intraretinal diffusion of light signals, reduced contrast sensitivity, and faster onset of visual confusion during long screen use. This effect becomes more pronounced during prolonged monitor work, especially in dim lighting. Increased accommodation effort is another key factor causing accelerated fatigue. High contrast of bright screen backgrounds, combined with short-term flicker modulation, results in faster ciliary muscle fatigue, increased accommodation spasm, and blurred vision.
Biologically, the blue component specifically stimulates intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), which influence melatonin suppression and circadian rhythm shifting. This is the key reason why digital fatigue has systemic consequences, not only local ocular symptoms.
Visual-ergonomic factors and symptoms
During screen work, blinking frequency drops from an average of 15–17/min to only 5–7/min, which is a key mechanism behind dry eye. Additionally, Near-vision lock (visual lock-in), a phenomenon where prolonged near-focus causes muscle spasm and so-called pseudomyopia, is present.
The most common symptoms indicating digital fatigue are:
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Ocular symptoms: Blurred vision after prolonged work, sensation of sand or foreign body in the eyes, dry eyes, redness, and a burning feeling.
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Neurological and painful symptoms: Headaches (especially frontal and supraorbital) and difficulty concentrating.
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Functional issues: Slower refocusing when looking into the distance, sleep disturbance, and nighttime insomnia.
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In children and adolescents: Poor posture, reduced attention span, and increased irritability are often present.

Recommendations and expert advice
There are several expert strategies that can reduce discomfort and prevent long-term consequences:
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Accommodation hygiene: Apply the “20-20-20” rule — every 20 minutes, look at a distant object (over 6 meters) for 20 seconds. This reduces accommodation stress and the risk of muscle spasm.
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Tear film stabilization: Conscious and regular blinking is key. If needed, use preservative-free lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) and avoid direct airflow (AC) to the eyes.
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Optimal ergonomics:
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Lighting color temperature should be 2700–3500 K in the evening.
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Place the monitor 15–20° below the horizontal line of sight to reduce eyelid opening and dryness.
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Eliminate reflections from windows and lighting sources.
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Blue light protection: When screen use cannot be avoided at night, use optical aids (glasses) or software filters that block high-energy wavelengths (≈ 420–455 nm) to stabilize circadian rhythm.
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Multitasking reduction: Limit rapid switching between multiple screens (phone, laptop, tablet) as it creates unexpectedly high cognitive and visual load.


