Vision Therapy in Lincoln

The Connection Between Screen Time and Dry Eye

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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
4.8
673 Reviews
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- Oct. 03, 2024
Staff was great, everything was fast and friendly.
- Sep. 12, 2024
From the very first moment I walked in I was greeted warmly, asked if I had an appt, and taken care ... of by the whole team of professionals! I met Dr. Brightman, who is caring and professional. I walked out with a repaired pair of glasses, ordered new ones from Brad, and had more knowledge about my eye vision! Great job everyone. 👍🏼
- Jul. 13, 2024
Would recommend
- Jul. 03, 2024
We love the team at Eyecare Specialities! Especially Dr. Brian Brightman! He’s so great with our e... ntire family!
- Jun. 25, 2024
The staff and Dr. Steger were very informative of the steps, and explained thoroughly the changes to... my eyes. I didn't feel rushed, and was allowed to ask follow-up questions at length.
- Jun. 25, 2024
Amazing staff! Very friendly and professional! Highly recommend!!!
- Jun. 19, 2024
Everyone is always kind, helpful and informative. They are all very good with my kids, 2 of whom are... on the spectrum.
- May. 28, 2024
Dr. Brian Brightman is amazing!!! The reception staff needs more training; especially, with release ... forms & patient history…..(established patient or new) You have to be your own ADVOCATE!!!
- May. 17, 2024
Have blurred vision and problems reading Found out I have cataracts. Dr Doug Harshman was very frien... dly and explained everything to me Would go back to him in a heart beat. Thank you Doug and staff.
- Apr. 19, 2024
Awesome place with awesome staff!
- Apr. 06, 2024
Dr. Taylor Steger was phenomenal! Hands down, the most thorough eye exam I have ever had. He was ext... remely patient with me as I asked several questions, provided me with lots of information, and had excellent bedside manner. Further, Dr. Steger’s team took great care of me and even went out of their way to make my appointment with a specialist for LASIK. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!
- Apr. 02, 2024
They have been taking care of my eye health for over 30 years. Thank you!
- Mar. 15, 2024
My brother Scott recommended Dr. Brightman. I’m so glad he did. Fantastic experience. My appointme... nt ran on time and the staff was kind and gracious. I highly recommend Dr. Brightman and his staff.
- Mar. 08, 2024
Dr. Taylor Steger and the whole staff, from beginning to end, provided highly professional skilled s... ervices. I was very impressed not only by them, but the whole facility.
- Feb. 16, 2024
Wonderful and kind staff. Answered all questions and always helpful.
- Jan. 17, 2024
Always timely and friendly! Wouldn't go anywhere else!
- Jan. 10, 2024
Staff arrived on time to get my kids and Dr. Brightman is always positive and knowledgeable when it ... comes to our eyes! I highly recommend seeing Dr. Brightman for your eyecare needs!
- Jan. 06, 2024
Everything went as expected.
- Nov. 17, 2023
Every person that helped me took the time to answer questions and didn't rush .
- Oct. 27, 2023
Very thorough and professional.

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Dry Eyes in Lincoln

Our optometry practice in Lincoln

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Consult EyeCare Specialties - Pine Lake for Digital Eye Strain Relief

Although lifestyle changes can be helpful, more effective dry eye management strategies may be necessary in some cases. EyeCare Specialties - Pine Lake 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 EyeCare Specialties - Pine Lake to discuss dry eye management options. Let's work together to protect their eyesight and ensure a bright future.

(402) 420-2020