The average adult spends 7+ hours per day on digital devices. This prolonged exposure leads to digital eye strain, a common trigger for dry eye.
Key causes of this include:
- Reduced Blink Rate – Staring at screens reduces blinking by up to 66%, leading to faster tear evaporation.
- Blue Light Exposure – Prolonged exposure can cause eye fatigue and disrupt sleep patterns.
- Poor Screen Positioning – Looking up at a screen can increase tear evaporation, making dryness worse.
Tips to Prevent Screen-Related Dry Eye
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule – Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away and blink for 20 seconds to reduce strain and rehydrate the eyes.
- Blink More Often – Consciously blink fully and frequently to refresh the tear film.
- Use Artificial Tears sparingly– Preservative-free lubricating drops help to rehydrate your eyes, but overuse can dilute the naturalprotective factors in the tears.
- Adjust Your Screen Setup – Keep monitors at eye level or below to reduce strain and evaporation.
- Bonus Tip: Upgrade to Blue Light Glasses! Blue light filtering glasses might help reduce eye strain and fatigue from prolonged screen use.
Experiencing persistent dry eye despite these changes?
Schedule an eye exam today for a customized treatment plan to protect your vision!
FAQs
What are the symptoms of digital eye strain?
Blurry vision, headaches, dry eyes, and difficulty focusing after prolonged screen use.
Can screen time cause permanent eye damage?
No, but it can worsen dry eye symptoms over time.