Silmäuupumusta

Silmäuupumusta, also known as "eye fatigue" or "visual strain," refers to a temporary condition caused by prolonged use of the eyes, often associated with activities such as reading, screen work, or focusing on small objects for extended periods. The term is commonly used in Finnish, where it combines *silmä* (eye) and *uupumusta* (fatigue). Symptoms typically include discomfort, blurred vision, headaches, dry or irritated eyes, and difficulty focusing.

This condition arises due to overuse of the eye muscles, insufficient blinking (leading to dryness), and excessive exposure to digital screens, which emit blue light that can strain the eyes. Poor lighting, incorrect viewing distances, and uncorrected vision problems may also contribute. Silmäuupumusta is not a medical diagnosis but rather a descriptive term for discomfort resulting from eye strain.

Prevention and relief often involve taking regular breaks (following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), adjusting screen brightness and contrast, maintaining proper lighting, and using artificial tears to combat dryness. Proper ergonomic setup, including correct monitor height and distance, can also reduce strain. In some cases, wearing blue-light-blocking glasses or adjusting screen settings to reduce glare may help.

While silmäuupumusta is usually temporary and resolves with rest, persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying issue such as refractive errors, eye muscle imbalances, or conditions like dry eye syndrome. Consulting an eye care professional is recommended if discomfort continues or worsens. Maintaining good eye hygiene and awareness of screen time can help minimize the risk of developing this common condition.