More Screens, More Symptoms
From work and school to entertainment and social connection, screens are now part of our everyday lives. But with all that convenience comes a common and frustrating side effect: dry, irritated eyes. If you’ve noticed your eyes feeling gritty, watery, or fatigued after using your phone, computer, or tablet—especially for long periods—you may be experiencing digital-related dry eye syndrome.
At Bladen Eye Center, we’re seeing more patients of all ages with dry eye symptoms directly linked to their screen use. Fortunately, there are ways to both manage symptoms and treat the root cause.
Why Screens Cause Dry Eyes
When you’re focused on a screen, your **blink rate decreases by up to 60%**. Blinking is how your eyes stay naturally lubricated—each blink spreads a layer of tears across the surface. So when blinking slows, your eyes don’t get the moisture they need.This leads to common symptoms such as:
- Dry, gritty, or sandy sensations
- Red or irritated eyes
- Blurry vision that comes and goes
- Burning or stinging
- Tearing (yes, watery eyes can be a sign of dryness!)
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Other contributing factors include poor lighting, air conditioning, long stretches without breaks, and even medications or underlying conditions.
Who’s at Risk for Digital Eye Strain?
Anyone who uses digital devices for hours a day is at risk—but certain groups are more likely to develop chronic dry eye symptoms:
- Remote workers and students
- Contact lens wearers
- Adults over age 40
- Women (especially post-menopause)
- Individuals with allergies or autoimmune conditions
Smart Habits to Ease Digital Dry Eye
Making a few adjustments to your screen routine can significantly improve your comfort:
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. It gives your eyes time to relax and blink fully.
2. Increase Your Blink Rate
Set subtle reminders to blink more often—especially during tasks like reading, editing, or gaming.
3. Use a Humidifier
Indoor environments with dry air (like air-conditioned offices or heated homes) can worsen dry eye. A humidifier helps maintain healthy moisture levels.
4. Adjust Screen Height
Keep screens slightly below eye level to encourage more natural blinking and prevent excess eye exposure.
5. Try Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter lubricating drops can help—but not all drops are the same. Ask us for recommendations based on your specific needs.
When It’s Time for Professional Care
If your dry eye symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with your daily life, it’s time for a comprehensive dry eye evaluation. At Bladen Eye Center, we go beyond temporary relief by diagnosing the **root cause** of your dry eye—whether it’s tear production, tear quality, inflammation, or blocked glands.Our in-office dry eye treatments may include:
- Thermal eyelid therapy to unclog oil glands
- Prescription drops to reduce inflammation
- Punctal plugs to retain natural tears longer
- Nutritional recommendations like omega-3 supplements
- Custom care plans for screen-heavy lifestyles
Relief Is Possible—Let’s Find It Together
Dry eyes are more than a nuisance—they can impact how you work, drive, read, and enjoy your day. The sooner you seek help, the sooner we can restore comfort and clarity.Ready to say goodbye to digital dry eye? Schedule your exam at Bladen Eye Center today and take the first step toward lasting relief.