Vision Therapy in Upper Darby

The Connection Between Screen Time and Dry Eye

(610) 623-0039

Alleviating Digital Eye Strain for Comfortable Vision

Do your eyes feel dry, irritated, or fatigued after a lengthy day spent scrolling through social media, tackling a barrage of emails, or streaming your favorite content? If so, you might be wondering whether screen time could be the culprit behind these discomforts.

Indeed, while digital devices have brought convenience, they've also introduced a new challenge for eye health: digital eye strain, which is often accompanied by dry eye symptoms.

boy playing VR game


Understanding Digital Eye Strain and Its Link to Dry Eyes

woman using mobile phone

Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a condition that arises when you spend extended periods gazing at screens. Its symptoms include dry eyes, fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches.

Several factors contribute to dry eyes during prolonged screen use:

  • Reduced Blink Rate

    While focusing on screens, people tend to blink less frequently. This reduced blink rate can lead to reduced tear production and increased tear evaporation, resulting in dry eyes.

  • Blue Light Exposure

    Digital screens emit blue light, disrupting the circadian rhythm. Disrupted sleep, in turn, can contribute to dry eye symptoms.

  • Poor Posture

    Incorrect screen placement or poor posture can cause you to open your eyes wider, increasing exposure to air and tear evaporation.

  • Reduced Blink Quality

    Frequent screen time can lead to incomplete blinks, where the upper and lower eyelids do not meet fully, causing inadequate tear film spreading and reduced oil secretion from meibomian glands.


The Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Children's Eyes

Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a condition that arises when you spend extended periods gazing at screens. Its symptoms include dry eyes, fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches.

Several factors contribute to dry eyes during prolonged screen use:

  • Eye Fatigue and Discomfort

    Excessive screen time can lead to eye fatigue, causing discomfort, reduced vision clarity, and headaches. Children may also lose interest in activities like reading due to eye strain .

  • Dry and Irritated Eyes

    Long screen sessions can result in dry and irritated eyes, as prolonged screen focus reduces blinking frequency. Maintaining a stable tear film on the eye's surface is crucial for clear vision, especially for children adapting to screens designed for adults.

  • Reduced Focus Flexibility

    Children who spend extended periods focusing on screens may struggle to adjust to distance vision afterward. Although this is usually a short-term issue, it highlights the importance of balanced screen time and outdoor activities.

  • Risk of Developing Myopia

    Excessive indoor screen time deprives children of essential natural daylight exposure, impacting their eye development. Studies suggest a link between increased indoor time and a higher risk of nearsightedness (myopia) in children. Balancing screen use with outdoor play is crucial for healthy eyes.

woman viewing tablet in bed


Treating Dry Eyes Caused by Screen Time

Dry eyes induced by excessive screen use may range from mild to severe, with severe cases potentially leading to permanent eye surface damage. Therefore, it's essential to take steps to alleviate these symptoms.

If you're someone who spends a considerable amount of time in front of screens, you can adopt several strategies to reduce the risk of digital eye strain and dry eyes:

  • Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes of screen time, take a 20-second break to focus on something at least 20 feet away.
  • Adjust Screen Settings: Modify the font size, brightness, and blue light emission to create a more comfortable viewing experience.
  • Proper Lighting: Ensure your screen is not overly bright, and your surroundings are well-lit.
  • Blink More: Always remember to blink regularly to keep your eyes moist.
  • Stay Hydrated: Maintaining adequate hydration can help support tear production.

Use Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops can relieve dry eyes while using screens.

Patient Reviews
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186 Reviews
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- Oct. 05, 2024
Everyone here is friendly, professional, and knowledgeable. I trust the care of my eyes from Dr. B.
- Oct. 02, 2024
I selected Olympus because they are listed as an authorized reseller of Wliey-X protective glasses. ... I ride a motorcycle and do not wear a full-face shield helmet, so I always need a good pair of riding goggles. I also like to go target shooting, and these lenses are also rated for that. Furthermore, while I do not require corrective vision to operate a motor vehicle, I use glasses to assist with reading and distance vision. My experience with Olympus was quite pleasant. Upon arriving at the location in Upper Darby, I was able to try on a variety of frames. Upon choosing a frame, I simply provided my most recent prescription and my insurance information. The quote was reasonable, and I got a $800 pair of glasses for around $250.00. There was a slight delay in receiving the new glasses. Unfortunately, there was some mixup at the lab, and something had to be redone. However, it was about a week after the expected delivery date, and the glasses were there at their Upper Darby location. 10/10 will work with them again when it is time to renew the lenses or the frames.
- Sep. 29, 2024
This place is the best kept secret for Eyewear in the area. Greatest customer service 👌 and faste... st delivery of glasses. Thanks!!!
- Sep. 10, 2024
I visited the facility and from the door I felt good from the level of professionalism shown by the ... front desk, to the doctor and the staff who help me select my glasses. Great job Olympus
- Aug. 13, 2024
Everyone at Olympus vision are very nice and professional especially Dr. Biletsky they really act li... ke they really care about your health I would recommend making an appointment if you are having eye trouble
- Aug. 11, 2024
Great doctor and the staff is excellent. My glasses came back in less than a week.
- Jul. 27, 2024
The service center is very efficient and effective with modern technology. Great staff and quality s... ervices from start to finish.
- Jul. 16, 2024
Everyone from the front desk to the doctor was so nice. I haven't wore contacts in a while & decide ... to make an appointment to get some. Dr. Biletsky explained everything to me & made it simple for me to understand. I would recommended Olympus to everyone
- Jun. 24, 2024
Great exam, friendly staff
- Jun. 13, 2024
I just want to say I really enjoy coming to this office the staff and the Doctor are really friendly... I really recommend it to everyone!!!🥰
- Apr. 18, 2024
Such a pleasurable experience!!
- Apr. 18, 2024
Awesome Eye Doctor! Was very attentive and explained everything in detail!! Love my new glasses.
- Apr. 12, 2024
Olympus Vision provided us with Excellent service from beginning to end!
- Mar. 15, 2024
Excellent customer service! Jasmine is awesome! She is patient and detailed oriented. I love this pl... ace. I will definitely be returning!
- Feb. 20, 2024
I brought my eyeglasses prescription over to Olympus Vision today. OMG, what a great visit I had ! I... had never come over to Olympus before. Hannah helped me. She's fantastic, and very nice and knowledgeable and helpful. I picked out several frames, and I asked her to help me choose the best one for me, size and measurement-wise. I appreciated her patience ! Also, Jasmine was helpful. I am so glad I came to Olympus Vision. It is an absolute GEM ! Whenever you need glasses, come right on over here. You won't be sorry, and you'll look forward to all future appointments !
- Feb. 13, 2024
A very thorough and efficient examination with excellent personnel. great customer
- Feb. 08, 2024
AWESOME EXPERIENCE friendly considerate staff. Great after school and after work hours. This place i... s the best keep secret. I will return again
- Jan. 02, 2024
Dr. B was the best and he is very knowledgeable. He was able to point out something that another doc... tor had missed. Hanna was very patient and helpful.
- Dec. 30, 2023
I love the eye doctors at Olympus Vision. The service at the front is so pleasant. They work with a ... smile and take their time when servicing you at the desk. I always felt like family when I am at the office. I won’t change doctors for a long time :-). I love it here.
- Dec. 22, 2023
Everyone is so helpful and friendly! They always explain things to you as well. I always take my son... here and he loves it! Just the absolute best place to get an eye exam. The doctor and staff are great! So glad we finally found our eye place!

View All 186 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Upper Darby

Our optometry practice in Upper Darby

Photograph of Nestor  Biletsky
Hours
  • Monday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Medicaid
  • Anthem
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross
  • MetLife

man using computer

Consult Olympus Vision for Digital Eye Strain Relief

Although lifestyle changes can be helpful, more effective dry eye management strategies may be necessary in some cases. Olympus Vision provides a range of treatments to restore your family's eyesight.

If you or a loved one suffers from ongoing dry eye symptoms due to prolonged screen use, our experienced eye care professionals can provide relief. Make an appointment with Olympus Vision to discuss dry eye management options. Let's work together to protect their eyesight and ensure a bright future.

(610) 623-0039