Globally, the average person devotes 6 hours and 40 minutes each day to watching a screen as they complete internet-connected activities, according to Comparitech. But with an average of 7 hours and 3 minutes per day, Americans engage in more screen time than most. Can too much screen time cause dry eyes? What can you do about it?
In today’s world, we use screens for both work and relaxation. Computers and tablets are standard equipment in schools and workplaces. Meanwhile, e-readers, streaming services, social media, web browsing, video chatting, content creation, countless gaming systems, and more provide entertainment for people of all ages. Unfortunately, you tend to blink at a reduced rate when staring at the screen of an electronic device. As the University of Iowa Health Care reports, people blink 66 percent less when working on a computer.
How can too much screen time cause dry eyes? The decreased blink rate gets much of the blame. Blinking spreads naturally hydrating substances like tears and mucus around the eye’s surface. Less blinking means these substances evaporate instead of being moved around to lubricate the eye. This leads to dryness and irritation. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to protect your eyes.
Make a Conscious Effort to Blink More
Recognizing there’s a problem is generally the first step to finding a solution. Once you know that screen time is linked with a tendency to blink less, you can make a conscious effort to blink more. Pick something to serve as a reminder. For example, if you’re reading, blink when you reach the end of each sentence.
Stay Hydrated
People who are dehydrated are already more likely to have dry, irritated eyes. Combining screen time with dehydration will only make the situation worse. Protect your comfort and your eyes by drinking enough water to remain properly hydrated.
Use Eye Drops
Can too much screen time cause dry eyes? If you feel like you know that answer all too well, you’re probably longing for a fast fix. Preservative-free, over-the-counter, hydrating eye drops may offer immediate relief. However, anyone who finds themselves constantly relying on these drops or getting insufficient support from them should talk with a doctor. Prescription eye drops may be a better solution.
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Staring at a screen slavishly for an extended period puts a major strain on the eye muscles. To protect your eyes, follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, focus on an item that is at least 20 feet away from your screen for a minimum of 20 seconds.
Capitalize on Technology
Many modern devices have settings that can be adjusted to make them more comfortable for your eyes. Whether it’s the refresh rate, the brightness, or a filter for glare or blue light, turning on these features can enable you to use your device with less wear and tear on your eyes. You can also download apps to remind you to take breaks from your screen.
Optimize Your Glasses
If you wear glasses, then you have an excellent opportunity to safeguard your eyes during screen time. Start by confirming that you’re wearing the correct prescription. After all, the wrong prescription will force your eyes to work overtime, causing fatigue and strain. Once that’s addressed, ask your eye doctor about special lenses or coatings. There are options designed to reduce glare and provide optimal viewing for digital screens.
Choose Glasses Over Contacts
Contact lenses can make your eyes feel even drier because they reduce the amount of oxygen able to reach the eye and also absorb some of the eye’s tear film. If you spend a lot of your time looking at a screen, consider swapping your contacts for glasses sometimes. In addition, discuss your concerns with your eye doctor. They may prescribe a different contact lens product, such as silicone hydrogels or daily disposables, to reduce eye dryness.
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Screen time is a common pastime in today’s world, and it can also be a cause of dry eyes. If you’re experiencing dry eyes, it’s important to seek professional help. After all, excessive screen time isn’t the only cause of dry eyes. You might also be suffering from Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, one of the most common causes of dry eyes. A knowledgeable eye doctor will work with you to identify the underlying cause and find the right treatment.
Do you suffer from dry eyes? If you live in southwest Missouri, stop by Heffington’s. Since 1975, the Heffington family has assisted the Springfield community with top-quality eye care and affordable eyeglasses and contacts. To learn more about our products and services, please get in touch with us online, send an e-mail to asktheexperts@heffingtons.com, or give us a call at 417-869-3937 (Optiland location) or 417-882-3937 (House of Vision location).