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Posted by: Medical Center Ophthalmology Associates in Eye Health

Stress is a normal part of life, but how we handle it matters. In our fast-paced world, we often experience physical and mental stress. Importantly, stress can directly affect your eyes. When overwhelmed by stress or anxiety, your body releases more adrenaline, which may increase eye pressure. This can cause symptoms like blurry vision, muscle tension, and headaches.

A Few Commonly Described Stress Eye Symptoms

Floaters are small, dark spots or strands that you might notice, especially when looking at light. Some describe them as spots, squiggly lines, or threads. You typically see floaters more clearly against bright backgrounds, such as the sky, a bright light, or white paper. Flashes are sudden flashes of light that flicker across your vision or appear as streaks of light that disrupt your sight.

How to Eliminate Eye Symptoms Due to Stress

Start by closing your eyes, relaxing, and calming your mind and body. To address eye symptoms caused by stress, it’s essential to reduce stress exposure. If you notice an active stress response, take steps to attain a calm and peaceful state. Let your body recover from the adrenaline rush. Spend about 20 minutes on self-care to help your body recover, which should restore your vision to normal.

Utilize the following stress relief techniques:

• Deep Breathing Exercises
• Meditation
• Social Support
• Yoga
• Relax (read, paint, or write a journal entry)

It is important to modify your daily routines and incorporate stress-relief methods to reduce the harmful effects of stress. Besides implementing these techniques into your daily life, try not to fixate on your symptoms.

Prioritize self-care by ensuring you get quality sleep every day, maintain a nutritious diet, and exercise regularly. These habits can reduce the adverse effects of stress on your eyes and overall health. Taking these actions helps you actively manage your well-being. If symptoms persist for a long time, contact your eye doctor and arrange an appointment.

Stress affects everyone differently. Some individuals may experience all eye-related symptoms of stress, while others may notice only a few. This variation is normal and should be recognized. Prioritize de-stressing for your eye health, and never underestimate the importance of your eyes.

Keep in mind, relaxation is essential. Pause to breathe

and count to 10—your eyes will thank you!

References: American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Academy of Optometry. This blog provides information and discussion about eye health and related subjects. The content provided in this blog and any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician.