The Relationship Between Screen Time and Dry Eye: Expert Tips for Relief and Prevention

In our digital era, spending extended periods in front of screens has become a part of everyday life. Whether it's work, entertainment, or social connections, screen time is omnipresent. However, an unwelcome side effect of this digital lifestyle is the increase in the number of people suffering from dry eyes. Dry eyes, a condition characterized by a burning sensation, redness, and a feeling of something lodged in your eyes, has become a common ailment among people of all age groups.

Understanding the Relationship Between Screen Time and Dry Eye

The human eye is designed to stay moist. This moisture comes from tears, which are produced by the lacrimal glands located above our eyes. Every time we blink, a thin layer of tears is spread across our eyes, keeping them lubricated and comfortable. But, when we spend long hours in front of digital screens, our blink rate decreases significantly, interrupting this natural lubricating process and leading to dry eyes.

The blue light emitted from screens can also contribute to dry eyes. Blue light has shorter wavelengths and more energy compared to other light types. This high-energy light can cause strain to our eyes, leading to symptoms of dry eyes. The strain is further increased when we use digital devices in low light conditions or at close distances.

Expert Tips for Relief from Dry Eye Caused by Screen Time

One of the most effective methods to alleviate dry eye symptoms is to follow the 20-20-20 rule. This rule suggests that every 20 minutes, you should take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This simple technique can help reduce digital eye strain and keep your eyes refreshed.

Another tip is to consciously blink more often. While it might seem strange at first, making an effort to blink, especially while using digital devices, can greatly help in maintaining the moisture in your eyes. 

Additionally, using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can also provide immediate relief from dry eye symptoms. These drops can supplement your natural tears and keep your eyes moist.

Lastly, adjusting the brightness and contrast of your screens can also help. If your screens are too bright or too contrasty, it can cause additional strain to your eyes. Adjusting these settings to match the ambient light can help reduce eye strain and thus, dry eyes.

How to Prevent Dry Eye Due to Screen Time

One preventative measure is to maintain a healthy diet. Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and seeds, can help improve tear production and thus, prevent dry eyes. Staying hydrated is also crucial. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help maintain the moisture in your eyes.

Another way to prevent dry eye is to incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Regular physical activity can improve blood circulation, including to the eyes, which can help reduce dry eye symptoms. Getting enough sleep is also crucial. Lack of sleep can affect the health of your eyes and lead to dry eyes.

Using blue light blocking glasses, can also help prevent dry eyes. These glasses can filter out the harmful blue light emitted from screens, reducing digital eye strain and preventing dry eyes.

Lastly, reducing the use of air conditioners and heaters can also help combat dry eyes. Both air conditioners and heaters can dry out the air, which in turn can dry out your eyes. Using a humidifier to maintain the humidity in your room can help keep your eyes moist.

Take Steps to Balance Screen Time for Your Eye Health

While we might not be able to completely avoid screens, being mindful of our screen time and taking regular breaks can go a long way in preventing dry eyes. Maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and incorporating regular exercise into our routine can also help keep our eyes healthy.

For more information on the relationship between screen time and dry eyes or if you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, visit Eyecare Center of Wethersfield at our office in Wethersfield, Connecticut. Call (860) 905-0086 to schedule an appointment today.