Vision Therapy in Gardner

The Connection Between Screen Time and Dry Eye

(913) 884-6800

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
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180 Reviews
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- Oct. 02, 2024
I heard about how great this place was from a moms group on Facebook and they did not disappoint. M... y son is little and gets nervous at doctors appointments so I was anxious about how it would go and if he would ever want to come back. They were so patient with him and explained things to him and myself very clearly. Dr. Martinez was great with my child and even gave his little spider man toy an eye exam as well. They approached my child with genuine kindness and joy and I truly appreciate that. My son loved it so much he wanted to go get an eye kit toy for him when he was done. So very thankful that my son was able to have such a positive experience with them.
- Sep. 28, 2024
Dr. Martinez and his staff are great! Super professional and extremely nice. No pressure to buy glas... ses and contacts immediately.
- Sep. 06, 2024
It's a wonderful efficient staff at this business they talked to him was very personable and kind. I... believe they actually cared about me and my eye health would definitely recommend this office to anyone anywhere.
- Sep. 01, 2024
Staff and doctors are super friendly. Would highly recommend for anyone needing an eye place
- Aug. 22, 2024
Dr. Martinez and his tech are great. Andre and Sam are amazing gals to work with to get glasses and ... Jenna made checking in so easy
- Aug. 15, 2024
I have to say the doctors and staff here have honestly been incredible for me and my daughters. I ha... d an exam and then when I got my glasses, something was totally off. The doctor redid my exam and got me new lenses and contacts and was super great about it! My 2 year old was also seen and given a stronger RX which then caused an eye turn. We went and saw the pediatric ophthalmologist to make sure it wasn’t a medical problem and they gave her a new RX. Since we had just recently ordered new glasses for her from Insight, I sent them the new RX and they are taking care of getting her new lenses! Honestly, we will be back every year just because their customer service is incredible!! Thank you all so much for taking care of me and my family!
- Aug. 01, 2024
Great experience
- Jul. 28, 2024
Super nice staff and very knowledgeable as well.
- Jul. 20, 2024
Dr Weigel is very professional and knowledgeable. The person who helped me pick my rx glasses save m... e lots of money! Thank you!
- May. 12, 2024
I came here for both glasses and contacts. The place is clean and airy, the staff were all super fri... endly and nice, the doctor was great with explaining situations, and their prodcuts were all great quality!!
- Apr. 30, 2024
Staff are friendly and knowledgeable. I did not have to wait long. Great place.
- Apr. 03, 2024
Great easy eye care. Staff was friendly, convenient location. Will continue to use them.
- Dec. 10, 2023
I’ve been going to Insight for several years. I am a diabetic and I feel like they take excellent ... care of my eyesight, as well as having adorable frames when I need new glasses
- Dec. 05, 2023
I cannot share enough how thrilled I am with my experience here! From the check in process, to my te... sting, to my exam, to my purchase - and any aftercare I've needed. Absolutely top notch!
- Nov. 15, 2023
Amazing I love them Alex always is a really good job with finding me the best frames
- Oct. 13, 2023
Professional, friendly and knowledgeable staff.
- Aug. 16, 2023
The staff at the Gardner Insight Vision Center are absolutely phenomenal!
- Aug. 11, 2023
This was a great experience. The staff was very friendly. I will be back
- Jul. 25, 2023
This place took care of me in every way! Please come to this place first!
- May. 25, 2023
Stellar staff and very knowledgeable doctors. They got my right in and out super quick! Great prices... and the check in lady was super nice and informative, happily looked my spouses benefits up, even tho the appointment was for me!

View All 180 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Gardner

Our optometry practice in Gardner

Photograph of Justin  Weigel
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Medicaid
  • Anthem
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • MetLife

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Consult Insight Vision Center - Gardner for Digital Eye Strain Relief

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

(913) 884-6800