Sensitivity to light and discomfort are the symptoms of dry eyes. You may also feel that there is something in your eye. Redness and inflammation are other symptoms indicating that you have dry eyes. In addition to posterior blepharitis, eye allergies, vitamin A deficiency, less blinking, and some eyelid problems, screen time can also cause dry eyes. You can use an electric dry eye relief mask. However, you should make some changes in your work and lifestyle to prevent this problem. Most people doing sitting jobs have to keep their eyes on screen throughout the day. When they come home, they check social media activities of their friends on tablets or smartphones, watch TV or play games for entertainment.
Too much screen time causes eye irritation and dry eyes. You can take some steps to reduce screen time and minimize its effects on your eyes. First of all, let’s understand the link between dry eyes and screen time. Your eyes stay healthy when they stay moist. Make sure that you blink every 10 seconds to keep your eyes moist. This releases a film that coats your eyes. However, people blink less often when they watch TV or they are on a computer or tablet. This causes dry eyes. This “tear film” is more than just water. It also contains oil and mucus. All these three substances are required to keep your eyes comfortable and moist.
When you work on computers or any other similar devices, this disturbs the natural balance of tears. According to a 2014 Japanese study, tears of people who spend more time on their computers or other screens contain a lower amount of mucus. 10% of the respondents in that study had dry eyes. More than 50% of the respondents were likely to develop dry eyes.
Age is also a risk factor. According to a 2016 study, aging people who spend less time outside and more time on screens experience more symptoms of dryness of eyes.
Dry eyes Prevention
If you are experiencing the symptoms of dry eyes, speak to a doctor and get diagnosed. In addition to medications, doctors also recommend an electric dry eye relief mask. Here are some tips for preventing dry eyes:
20/20/20 Rule
Every worker who has to look at a screen during working hours should follow this rule. After 20 minutes of work, take a break for 20 seconds and look at something 20 feet away. You can set a reminder on your computer or use the alarm feature of your smartphone.
Don’t Stare
Always remember that you have to blink frequently at work. Avoid looking at your computer for a long stretch. In case you have to, blink more often.
Use Humidifier
Cell phones and computers produce heat. The amount of heat depends on the amount of work. This leads to dry indoor air. You can use a humidifier to increase the moisture content of dry indoor air.
Reduce screen brightness
Increased screen brightness means your eyes are exposed to more light. This can also lead to dryness.
Maintain proper distance
People hold smart devices such as smartphones or tablets only 8″ to 12″ from their eyes. Moreover, they blink less often. This is not good for the health of their eyes. Make sure that the device is at least 20″ from your face.
You can also use bigger text on the screen and shed the right light that helps you avoid glare. Don’t forget to use an electric dry eye relief mask.
