Digital Devices and Dry Eye: Eye Doctor Tips for Relief

In this digital age, our reliance on digital devices such as computers, smartphones, tablets, and televisions is undeniable. These gadgets have become integral to our daily lives, serving as tools for work, education, communication, and entertainment. However, as we increasingly engage with digital screens, an emerging health concern has surfaced, known as 'digital eye strain' or 'computer vision syndrome,' a condition often characterized by dry eyes. Recognizing the link between digital devices and dry eye, understanding its causes, and taking steps toward relief is crucial to maintaining our eye health in the digital age.

The Correlation Between Digital Devices and Dry Eye

As our screen time increases, so does our exposure to the damaging effects of these digital devices on our eyes. Research indicates a direct correlation between the use of digital devices and dry eye syndrome.

Digital devices exacerbate dry eye symptoms in several ways. The most significant is the reduction in blink rate. Blinking is crucial for maintaining a healthy tear film as it spreads the tear evenly across the eye surface. When we stare at a digital screen, our blink rate reduces by nearly half, disrupting the tear film and leading to dryness.

Additionally, staring at digital screens often involves looking straight ahead or upward, causing the upper eyelid to pull back and expose more of the eye's surface, leading to increased tear evaporation.

The blue light emitted from screens can cause digital eye strain, making the eyes work harder and enhancing dryness. This, coupled with the fact that many of us use these devices in environments that are not eye-friendly, intensifies the issue.

Finally, overuse of digital devices can trigger the trigeminal nerve adding additional strain, computer discomfort, light sensitivity, neck stiffness or pain, headaches, motion sickness and even dry eye. This is called trigeminal dysphoria and can occur with increased near work oftentimes associated with digital devices such as computers, tablets and cell phones.

Symptoms of Dry Eye Caused by Digital Devices

Recognizing the symptoms of dry eye caused by digital devices is the first step towards seeking relief. The most common symptoms include a stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in your eyes. You may also experience stringy mucus in or around your eyes, sensitivity to light, eye redness, or a sensation of having something in your eyes.

In some cases, ironically, dry eye can cause watery eyes, as your eyes overproduce tears due to the underlying dryness. Difficulty wearing contact lenses, blurred vision or eye fatigue, especially after reading or using a computer for long periods, are other notable symptoms.

Tips for Relief from Dry Eye Symptoms Caused by Digital Devices

While it may be impossible to completely eliminate the use of digital devices, there are several tips for relief from dry eye symptoms. Firstly, take frequent breaks from your screen. This gives your eyes a rest and can help prevent dry eye.

Secondly, adjust your screen's brightness, contrast, and font size to reduce strain. Position your screen below eye level, so you don't open your eyes as wide, reducing tear evaporation.

Thirdly, stay hydrated and blink consciously, especially during prolonged digital device usage. Blinking helps replenish the tear film and counteracts the drying effect of screens.

Additionally, certain lifestyle changes can also help reduce dry eye symptoms. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help improve tear quality.

Lastly, regular exercise improves blood circulation, including to the eyes, potentially boosting tear production. Avoiding smoke and wind, using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, and wearing sunglasses outdoors to protect from wind and sun can also help.

Maintaining Eye Health in the Digital Age

Our dependence on digital devices has led to an increase in dry eye symptoms. the link between digital devices and dry eye, recognizing its causes, and taking steps towards relief are crucial to maintaining our eye health with digital devices.

For those experiencing symptoms associated with trigeminal dysphoria, there are therapeutic glasses such as the Neurolens that can be prescribed to help eliminate or minimize the discomfort.

To learn more about the link between digital devices and dry eye or digital devices and trigeminal dysphoria, visit Paradise Canyon Eye Care at our office in St. George, Utah. Call (435) 291-5093 to discuss dry eye treatment options or to schedule an appointment today.