How Much Screen Time Can Cause Dry Eyes?

In today’s digital world, it’s nearly impossible to escape screens. Whether it’s working on a computer, scrolling on a phone, or relaxing in front of the TV, many of us spend hours each day looking at digital devices. Unfortunately, all this screen exposure can take a toll on our eyes - especially when it comes to dry eye symptoms.
 

How Screen Time Contributes to Dry Eyes

When you focus on a screen, you tend to blink less frequently - sometimes up to 60% less than normal. This reduction in blinking prevents tears from spreading evenly across your eyes, causing them to evaporate more quickly. Over time, this can lead to symptoms such as:

• Burning or stinging eyes

• Blurred vision

• Redness or irritation

• A feeling of grittiness or dryness

Even as little as two consecutive hours of screen use can cause noticeable eye discomfort for many people, especially if you’re in an air-conditioned or low-humidity environment.
 

What You Can Do to Prevent Digital-Related Dry Eye

There are several steps you can take to protect your eyes while using digital devices:

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

• Blink more often: Make a conscious effort to blink fully and frequently to keep your eyes lubricated.

• Use artificial tears: Over-the-counter lubricating drops can help relieve dryness.

• Adjust your workspace: Keep your screen at eye level and reduce glare to minimize strain.

• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration supports healthy tear production.
 

How We Can Help Dry Eye Discomfort

If you’re consistently experiencing dryness, irritation, or blurry vision, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your Pflugerville optometrist. Chronic dry eye can worsen without proper care, but a professional evaluation can identify the underlying causes and the best treatment options for your eyes.

During your visit, your optometrist will perform a comprehensive dry eye evaluation that may include measuring your tear production, assessing tear quality, and examining the surface of your eyes for signs of inflammation or damage. Specialized diagnostic tools can also help determine whether your symptoms are due to tear evaporation, insufficient tear production, or gland dysfunction.

By understanding the root cause of your dryness, your optometrist can recommend a personalized treatment plan - ranging from artificial tears and prescription eye drops to advanced in-office procedures that restore proper tear balance and comfort.
 

Discover Advanced Dry Eye Treatments in Pflugerville, TX

While screens are an unavoidable part of modern life, they don’t have to lead to chronic dry eye. By making a few simple adjustments and getting professional care when needed, you can maintain clear, comfortable vision - even in a digital world.

If you’ve noticed your eyes feeling dry or tired after long hours on screens, contact Pflugerville Vision Care to schedule a consultation and learn about our dry eye treatments. Visit our office in Pflugerville, Texas, or call (512) 251-4099 today.