The Impact of Screen Time on Dry Eyes & Digital Eye Strain Solutions

Screens are now an unavoidable part of daily life, whether you are checking emails on your phone, working on a computer, or relaxing with your favorite TV shows. As people spend more time on digital devices, many are noticing dry, uncomfortable eyes and symptoms of digital eye strain. Understanding how screen time affects your eyes is the first step toward finding effective relief and protecting your long-term eye health.

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears isn’t sufficient to keep your eyes properly lubricated. This common condition can cause symptoms like stinging, burning, blurred vision, and a gritty feeling in the eyes.

There are two primary types of dry eye:

• Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye: When the eyes don’t produce enough tears.

• Evaporative Dry Eye: When tears evaporate too quickly, often due to poor tear quality. This is frequently linked to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), a condition where the oil glands in the eyelids become blocked or don't function properly.

How Screen Time Contributes to Dry Eye

Staring at digital screens for long periods reduces how often you blink - sometimes by up to 60%. Blinking spreads tears across the surface of your eyes, helping to keep them moist and comfortable. Less blinking means less moisture, which can lead to dry eye symptoms and digital eye strain.

Digital eye strain (also known as computer vision syndrome) is a group of symptoms caused by prolonged screen use. Over time, the combination of dry air, screen glare, and extended focus can worsen dry eye and make it harder to concentrate.

For many people, over-the-counter artificial tears or taking regular screen breaks may not provide enough relief. Fortunately, advanced treatments are available - especially for those whose dry eye is caused by MGD.

Other Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can develop for many reasons beyond screen time. Aging is one of the most common causes, as tear production naturally decreases over time. Hormonal changes, especially in women during pregnancy or menopause, can also affect tear quality. 

Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs, may reduce tear production. Medical conditions like autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, or allergies can also increase the risk of dry eye. 

Even wearing contact lenses for extended periods can disrupt the tear film and lead to discomfort. Understanding these additional causes is important for finding the right treatment and achieving lasting relief.

How Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy Works to Treat Dry Eye

IPL therapy uses gentle pulses of light to treat the root cause of evaporative dry eye. This treatment targets abnormal blood vessels and inflammation around the eyelids, helping to unclog the meibomian glands so they can produce the oils necessary for healthy tears. IPL therapy is safe, quick, and can provide long-lasting relief for many patients.

The Role of Radiofrequency (RF) Treatment

RF treatment is another innovative solution for dry eyes related to MGD. This technology uses controlled radiofrequency energy to gently heat the eyelids, stimulating the oil glands and improving their function. RF therapy can also tighten the skin around the eyes and eyelids, providing an added cosmetic benefit.

Achieve Dry Eye Relief at MTANG Eye Care

If you’re experiencing dry, irritated eyes or struggling with digital eye strain, you’re not alone. Prolonged screen use is a reality of modern life, but it doesn’t have to mean constant discomfort. We offer advanced treatments that target the root causes of dry eye, helping you feel and see your best.

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a dry eye evaluation with MTANG Eye Care and discover how IPL and RF therapy can provide lasting relief. Visit our office in Seal Beach or Fullerton, California. Please call (562) 594-5546 or (714) 278-9065 to book an appointment today.