Stress is an unavoidable part of modern life, with almost 7 in 10 Brits (67%) experiencing stress every week, according to new research by Optical Express. Alarmingly, 15% of people report feeling stressed every single day.*
While stress is often associated with mental and emotional well-being, fewer people realise the significant impact it can have on eye health. In fact, only 42% of Brits are aware that stress can directly affect their vision, leading to issues such as eye strain, dry eyes and even blurred vision. *
As Stress Awareness Month approaches, it’s the perfect time to explore how stress affects your eyes and what you can do to protect your vision.
The Link Between Stress and Eye Health
When we’re stressed, our body enters a “fight or flight” mode, triggering physiological changes such as eye pupil dilation, increased heart rate and muscle tension. While this response is helpful in short bursts, prolonged stress can lead to eye-related problems that interfere with daily life.
According to Dr Stephen Hannan, Clinical Services Director at Optical Express, some of the most common stress-induced eye issues include:
1. Eye Strain
Stress can cause the muscles around your eyes to tense up, leading to visual fatigue. This is especially common for those who spend long hours in front of screens, compounding the effects of digital eye strain.
2. Blurred Vision
High stress levels can increase adrenaline production, which may cause temporary changes in vision, including blurriness. In some cases, stress can even impact the sensitive layers of the retina.
3. Dry or Watery Eyes
Depending on how your body responds to stress, you may experience dry eyes or excessive tearing. Both conditions can be uncomfortable and make it harder to focus.
4. Eye Twitching (Myokymia)
Ever noticed your eye twitching during a stressful period? Myokymia, or involuntary eyelid spasms, is a common response to high stress levels and can last anywhere from a few seconds to several days.
5. Eye Floaters
For some, stress may lead to tiny floating spots appearing in their vision, known as eye floaters. While generally harmless, these can be a sign of chronic tension affecting the eyes.
How to Reduce Stress-Related Eye Issues
The good news? Managing stress can help alleviate eye problems and improve overall well-being. Here are some simple ways to reduce stress and protect your vision:
1. Achieve optimal vision through vision correction. Many patients can achieve this today through vision correction surgery, where short sightedness, long sightedness and astigmatism are corrected for example via state-of-the-art permanent laser procedures.
2. For those utilising computer screens or tablet devices on a regular basis take regular screen breaks – follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
3. Practice deep breathing or meditation – this helps relax your nervous system and reduce tension in your eye muscles.
4. Get enough sleep! Lack of sleep (a top stress trigger for 51% of Brits)* can worsen eye strain and irritation.
5. Stay hydrated, dehydration can contribute to dry eyes, so make sure you’re drinking enough water.
6. Book an eye test – if you're experiencing persistent vision problems, schedule an eye exam to rule out underlying conditions.
Prioritise Your Eye Health Today
It’s clear that stress is a growing concern - but your eye health doesn’t have to suffer.
If you’re experiencing stress-related vision issues, don’t ignore them. Book a professional eye test at Optical Express to ensure your vision stays sharp and healthy.
Find out more and book your appointment today at opticalexpress.co.uk
*Study commissioned by Optical Express 2025
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