Why do I get headaches after looking at screens all day?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to finish work, but after hours at the screen your eyes burn and your head pounds.

Ignoring eye strain makes afternoons miserable.

Causes & evidence

Eye strain, posture and dehydration can contribute to tension-type headaches. See headache types.

What to do

1. Use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
2. Adjust brightness to match the room.
3. Check posture and screen height.
4. Get an eye exam.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: staring without breaks. Try looking away at something far away regularly, blinking more and adjusting brightness to match the room. Position the screen about an arm's length away and slightly below eye level. Reduce glare from windows. If you need glasses or your prescription is old, an eye exam can help. Persistent headaches deserve a doctor visit. Also check your posture. Hunching toward the screen strains neck muscles, which can feed headaches.

Speed Man tip: An outdated glasses prescription is a sneaky cause.

Wrap-up: Take screen breaks. Fix posture and brightness. Get eyes checked.