How Can Screen Time Affect Your Eyes and Contribute to Dry Eye?

In our digital world, it’s almost impossible to avoid screens. Whether you’re working on a computer, scrolling through your phone, or binge-watching your favorite shows, screen time has become part of everyday life. However, spending long hours in front of screens can have real consequences for your eye health.
 

The Link Between Screen Time and Dry Eye

Your eyes are designed to blink regularly, which spreads tears evenly across the surface and keeps them well-lubricated. However, when you’re focused on a screen, your blink rate naturally decreases. Studies show people blink up to 60% less often while using digital devices. This reduced blinking can cause your eyes to dry out more quickly, leading to uncomfortable symptoms like stinging or burning sensations, a gritty feeling, redness, irritation, blurry vision that clears after blinking, and increased sensitivity to light. If left untreated, chronic dry eye can even cause long-term damage to the surface of your eyes.
 

What You Can Do to Protect Your Eyes

While it’s not realistic to eliminate screen time, you can take simple steps to protect your eyes and reduce the risk of dry eye:

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This gives your eyes a chance to relax and encourages normal blinking.

• Adjust Your Environment: Use a humidifier to keep the air moist, and avoid sitting directly under air vents or fans, which can dry out your eyes.

• Optimize Your Screen Setup: Keep screens at eye level and about 20–24 inches away from your face. Reduce screen glare by adjusting your device’s brightness and contrast.

• Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating drops can help keep your eyes moist during periods of extended screen use. Be sure to choose preservative-free options if you use them frequently.

• Limit Screen Time When Possible: Take regular breaks from screens throughout the day and prioritize off-screen activities when you can.
   

When to See Dr. Joe C. Kea

If you’re experiencing ongoing dry eye symptoms that don’t improve with lifestyle changes, it’s important to see an eye care professional. Persistent dryness, irritation, redness, or vision changes can be signs of a more serious issue that needs expert evaluation and care. Dr. Kea at Primary Eye Care can provide a comprehensive eye exam, diagnose the cause of your symptoms, and recommend effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
 

Concerned About Dry Eye?

Screen time is a reality of modern life, but you don’t have to let it compromise your eye health. By taking proactive steps to protect your eyes and knowing when to seek professional help, you can keep your vision clear and comfortable during screen time.
 

If dry eye is affecting your productivity, schedule a consultation at Primary Eye Care to get personalized solutions for your eye comfort and health. Visit our office in Tupelo, Mississippi, or call (662) 200-9842 to book an appointment today.