Synsbelastning

Synsbelastning, often translated as visual load or eye strain, is the discomfort or fatigue experienced by the visual system after intensive or prolonged use of vision. It is commonly associated with near work, screen time, poor lighting, or high visual demands. Symptoms can include eye fatigue, dryness, blurred or fluctuating vision, headaches, and neck or shoulder tension.

Causes of synsbelastning include prolonged screen use, reading at close distance, small text, low contrast, glare, incorrect viewing angle, and insufficient breaks. Contributing factors also include inadequate lighting, high cognitive load, uncorrected refractive error, and an insufficient tear film background, which can worsen dryness and discomfort.

Assessment and prevention rely on symptom reports and, when needed, an eye examination rather than a single diagnostic test. Prevention emphasizes ergonomic and environmental adjustments: position the screen at arm’s length with the top at or slightly below eye level; ensure adequate non-glare lighting; increase text size and contrast; consider blue-light filters; follow the 20-20-20 rule (look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes); take regular breaks; blink regularly and stay hydrated.

Impact and management: For most people synsbelastning is temporary, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by an eye care professional, as they may indicate underlying vision problems or dry eye. In workplaces, reducing visual load through better lighting, screen setup, and breaks can improve comfort and productivity. Synsbelastning is commonly discussed alongside related concepts such as asthenopia and digital eye strain.