Vision Therapy in Fredericksburg

The Connection Between Screen Time and Dry Eye

(540) 373-3021

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.

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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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45 Reviews
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- Nov. 09, 2024
Dr. Church is a wonderful doctor. He explains his findings very well and allows time for questions ... and provides thorough explanations. We felt he took his time to examine and care for my husband. We will always return to him!
- Nov. 09, 2024
Excellent experience! Very professional, friendly, and inviting staff. Clean and well kept facility.... Dr. Lambertson diagnosed my eye care needs effectively and was very professional and helpful! I highly recommend Premier Eyecare
- Nov. 05, 2024
Competent professional service. Dr Church and the staff at Premier Eyecare are great!
- Nov. 05, 2024
What a relief to finally find a doctor who knows their stuff and cares enough to do things right!
- Nov. 01, 2024
If you want the BEST of the BEST, Dr. Bradley Church is the doctor you need to choose.
- Oct. 24, 2024
Professional Patient, play, and attends to all your needs
- Oct. 05, 2024
Doctors and staff members at Premier Eyecare are amazing!!
- Sep. 26, 2024
Extremely pleased with service for many years!
- Sep. 16, 2024
Good service.
- Sep. 08, 2024
I love my new glasses
- Sep. 03, 2024
Justin at Premier eyecare, is a professional, along with Dr Church, are a great team and represent e... xceptional customer service!! Dr.Brown
- Aug. 28, 2024
Dr. Tsai is the best there is! She is so patient with my son and attentive to his needs.
- Apr. 06, 2023
Great customer service, knowledgeable staff. First class operation!!Dr. Stephanie is awesome!!

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Dry Eyes in Fredericksburg

Our optometry practice in Fredericksburg

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Hours
  • Monday 7:45 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 7:45 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 7:45 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 7:45 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 7:45 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Cigna
  • Humana
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Consult Premier Eyecare, Angela Tsai, O.D. and Associates for Digital Eye Strain Relief

Although lifestyle changes can be helpful, more effective dry eye management strategies may be necessary in some cases. Premier Eyecare, Angela Tsai, O.D. and Associates 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 Premier Eyecare, Angela Tsai, O.D. and Associates to discuss dry eye management options. Let's work together to protect their eyesight and ensure a bright future.

(540) 373-3021