Did the pandemic and work-from-home increase screen time?
Isolation and restrictions on movement during the Covid-19 pandemic increased our dependence on the internet to maintain contact with the outside world. And the transition to work-from-home means people can transition from computer screens to cell phones to TV screens all day with no breaks in between.
But staring at cellphones and computer screens for long periods can affect your eye health.
At Assil Gaur Eye Institute (AGEI), we noticed an increased number of patients presenting to our office with the following symptoms:
- Dry, irritable eyes
- Red, itchy eyes
- Gritty sensation
- Mucous secretions
- Episodic blurry vision
- Eye strain
- Eye fatigue
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Contact lens issues
These are classic symptoms of dry eye disease—which can be made worse by screen time.
What is dry eye disease?
Dry eye disease (DED), also known as dry eye syndrome, is an eye condition that affects over 16 million adults in the United States. It manifests as insufficient lubrication on the eye’s surface due to tear film instability.
Tear film is the thin fluid layer covering the ocular surface that interacts with the environment. It lubricates and protects the cornea (the clear part of the eye) from infection, eliminates debris, and creates a smooth surface coating—allowing light to be properly focused for clear vision.
Dry eye disease affects tear film by decreasing tear quantity and altering tear quality.
Currently, 5-15% of Americans are experiencing dry eye symptoms.
What is computer vision syndrome?
Computer vision syndrome (CVS)—also known as digital eye syndrome or digital eye strain—is a cluster of symptoms that describes the negative impact increased computer use has on eye health. This condition is caused by extended computer screen time and frequent screen use.
Computer vision syndrome symptoms include:
- eye dryness and strain
- blurred vision
- headaches
- neck and back pain
Approximately 90% of adults who use digital devices experience computer vision syndrome. According to eye care professionals, there has been a marked increase in dry eyes from screen time.
Does screen time cause dry eye disease?
Computer vision syndrome can be short-term or develop into long-term vision problems, including dry eye disease. The severity of the symptoms depends on your eye health and how long the symptoms have persisted.
Excessive screen time and dry eye disease go hand in hand. There are a few reasons for this, including:
Lower blink rate
Blinking is essential for re-establishing the tear film that keeps eyes healthy. Unfortunately, while staring at a screen, we blink less.
One research study analyzed subjects’ blinking data and found it to be a reliable indicator for predicting computer vision syndrome in real-life settings. The data revealed a decrease in the blinking rate to about 9 to 17 blinks per minute while using a computer—participants with higher blink rates had fewer CVS symptoms.
An older study found that the blink rate during conversation was between 10 and 32 blinks per minute, while the blink rate when reading was an average 2-14 blinks per minute. So the research does suggest that staring intently at one point does lower your natural blink rate.
Eye strain
Too much screen time can also lead to eye strain. According to the American Optometric Association, the eyes become more strained when viewing digital screens than when reading printed words on a page. This is due to decreased contrast on a screen—and by comparison, letters on a printed page are more sharply defined.
Eye strain can also be caused by glare that reflects from the screen when it’s too close. The remedy is to keep the device at arm’s length.
Digital eye strain can worsen the symptoms of dry eye disease or make it more likely to occur.
Poor hydration
Dehydration can cause dry eye symptoms to worsen. Water is a necessary ingredient of tear film and is required to maintain eye health—staying hydrated helps control symptoms.
When you’re intensely focused on a screen—while finishing a work project or playing a video game—it can be easy to forget to drink water. Dry eye isn’t the only problem caused by dehydration, so consider setting a timer to remind yourself to drink water throughout the day!
Schedule your consultation today with the internationally recognized doctors at AGEI
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866-945-2745
What are computer vision syndrome treatment options?
Our eye doctors understand there is not one best treatment option because each patient responds differently to treatment. In fact, it’s not unusual for a patient to require a combination of treatment modalities to successfully manage their symptoms.
Computer vision syndrome treatment options include the following:
Follow the 20-20-20 rule
The 20-20-20 rule involves taking a 20-second break from a smartphone or computer screen. Every 20 minutes look away from your digital device at something 20 feet away. You can set the alarm on your smartphone as a reminder.
Screen breaks
Screen breaks don’t have to be for long periods. Every hour or two, take a few minutes to get up, go for a short walk, and stretch your arms and legs. It helps to relieve eye strain due to prolonged focus.
Use a humidifier
Use a humidifier in the room where the computer is used. A humidifier adds moisture to dry indoor air, effectively helping to maintain tear film without evaporation.
Artificial tears
Artificial tears are eye drops used to lubricate dry eyes and maintain moisture on the ocular surface. Artificial tears may also:
- Promote healing
- Decrease tear evaporation
Artificial tears contain thickening agents that maintain the solution on the surface of the eye for a longer period.
Glare filter
Blue-light filters placed over computer screens reduce glare—one of the causes of eye strain leading to dry eye disease. Blue light contributes to digital eye strain because it scatters more freely than other light.
A recent study shows that filters block 30-60% of blue light.
Experiencing dry eye symptoms? Get relief with Assil Gaur Eye Institute
The optometrists at Assil Gaur Eye Institute can provide a comprehensive dry eye exam to determine the underlying cause of your ocular symptoms and prescribe an effective treatment plan. Uncovering the root cause of your dry eye symptoms is the fastest way to return to digital screen use comfortably and pain-free.
At AGEI, you will experience a state-of-the-art healthcare facility that brings together revolutionary technologies with experienced vision care professionals. Our goal is to help you achieve your personal best vision.
Please call 866-945-2745 or visit us here to make an appointment online. If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, contact us to determine the best time to schedule an exam.
We are conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area at locations in or near Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, and Downtown Los Angeles.
