Vision Therapy in Tucson

The Connection Between Screen Time and Dry Eye

(520) 299-4000

Alleviating Digital Eye Strain for Comfortable Vision

Do your eyes feel dry, irritated, or fatigued after a lengthy day spent scrolling through social media, tackling a barrage of emails, or streaming your favorite content? If so, you might be wondering whether screen time could be the culprit behind these discomforts.

Indeed, while digital devices have brought convenience, they've also introduced a new challenge for eye health: digital eye strain, which is often accompanied by dry eye symptoms.

boy playing VR game


Understanding Digital Eye Strain and Its Link to Dry Eyes

woman using mobile phone

Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a condition that arises when you spend extended periods gazing at screens. Its symptoms include dry eyes, fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches.

Several factors contribute to dry eyes during prolonged screen use:

  • Reduced Blink Rate

    While focusing on screens, people tend to blink less frequently. This reduced blink rate can lead to reduced tear production and increased tear evaporation, resulting in dry eyes.

  • Blue Light Exposure

    Digital screens emit blue light, disrupting the circadian rhythm. Disrupted sleep, in turn, can contribute to dry eye symptoms.

  • Poor Posture

    Incorrect screen placement or poor posture can cause you to open your eyes wider, increasing exposure to air and tear evaporation.

  • Reduced Blink Quality

    Frequent screen time can lead to incomplete blinks, where the upper and lower eyelids do not meet fully, causing inadequate tear film spreading and reduced oil secretion from meibomian glands.


The Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Children's Eyes

Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a condition that arises when you spend extended periods gazing at screens. Its symptoms include dry eyes, fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches.

Several factors contribute to dry eyes during prolonged screen use:

  • Eye Fatigue and Discomfort

    Excessive screen time can lead to eye fatigue, causing discomfort, reduced vision clarity, and headaches. Children may also lose interest in activities like reading due to eye strain .

  • Dry and Irritated Eyes

    Long screen sessions can result in dry and irritated eyes, as prolonged screen focus reduces blinking frequency. Maintaining a stable tear film on the eye's surface is crucial for clear vision, especially for children adapting to screens designed for adults.

  • Reduced Focus Flexibility

    Children who spend extended periods focusing on screens may struggle to adjust to distance vision afterward. Although this is usually a short-term issue, it highlights the importance of balanced screen time and outdoor activities.

  • Risk of Developing Myopia

    Excessive indoor screen time deprives children of essential natural daylight exposure, impacting their eye development. Studies suggest a link between increased indoor time and a higher risk of nearsightedness (myopia) in children. Balancing screen use with outdoor play is crucial for healthy eyes.

woman viewing tablet in bed


Treating Dry Eyes Caused by Screen Time

Dry eyes induced by excessive screen use may range from mild to severe, with severe cases potentially leading to permanent eye surface damage. Therefore, it's essential to take steps to alleviate these symptoms.

If you're someone who spends a considerable amount of time in front of screens, you can adopt several strategies to reduce the risk of digital eye strain and dry eyes:

  • Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes of screen time, take a 20-second break to focus on something at least 20 feet away.
  • Adjust Screen Settings: Modify the font size, brightness, and blue light emission to create a more comfortable viewing experience.
  • Proper Lighting: Ensure your screen is not overly bright, and your surroundings are well-lit.
  • Blink More: Always remember to blink regularly to keep your eyes moist.
  • Stay Hydrated: Maintaining adequate hydration can help support tear production.

Use Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops can relieve dry eyes while using screens.

Patient Reviews
4.9
151 Reviews
5
4
3
2
1
- Aug. 03, 2024
Pretty much a drop in appointment to see optometrist. Very helpful and good advice.
- Jul. 22, 2024
Staff was very friendly and helpful.
- Jun. 27, 2024
Fast service. Great staff
- May. 27, 2024
Amazing staff all around, from Dr Wanon at the top to the very bottom. Everyone was patient and grac... eful in managing my needs.
- Mar. 26, 2024
Staff were very helpful and glasses were ready when promised.
- Feb. 08, 2024
Great staff, selection and price
- Jan. 20, 2024
Excellent service and friendly staff!
- Jan. 20, 2024
Dr wanen was very much caring and spent enough time to explain my eye condition, cuz I was worri... ed about my blurry vision .
- Jan. 13, 2024
Wonderful experience!! Thank you!! Highly recommended!!!
- Dec. 06, 2023
Dr. Wanon is knowledgeable and caring.
- Nov. 23, 2023
Great Service
- Nov. 11, 2023
Very professional and a great experience.
- Sep. 24, 2023
Great service
- Jun. 17, 2023
Staff was friendly and efficient, and the Dr was thorough and attentive.
- May. 19, 2023
Dr Wanon was excellent! Very pleased with my entire experience. The front desk staff was also very... accommodating! I will recommend to my circle of friends!
- Apr. 10, 2023
Great staff and solid service
- Mar. 17, 2023
Great experience!
- Jan. 10, 2023
Jaime and Nenah are spectacular with clients, I love stopping by to simply say hello and cut up with... the staff.
- Jan. 06, 2023
10 stars for patience in helping my child learn to put in contacts! Great service, friendly, great d... octor, organized, will price match for contacts.
- Jan. 05, 2023
Great service, friendly staff, and prompt service!

View All 151 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Tucson

Our optometry practice in Tucson

Photograph of Jacob  Wanon
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Davis Vision
  • Avesis
  • Anthem
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • EyeMed
  • Blue Cross
  • MetLife

man using computer

Consult Alvernon Optical - Sunrise for Digital Eye Strain Relief

Although lifestyle changes can be helpful, more effective dry eye management strategies may be necessary in some cases. Alvernon Optical - Sunrise provides a range of treatments to restore your family's eyesight.

If you or a loved one suffers from ongoing dry eye symptoms due to prolonged screen use, our experienced eye care professionals can provide relief. Make an appointment with Alvernon Optical - Sunrise to discuss dry eye management options. Let's work together to protect their eyesight and ensure a bright future.

(520) 299-4000