From the Guidelines
To mitigate the effects of screen time on sensitive eyes, it is crucial to follow the 20-20-20 rule, position screens at arm's length and slightly below eye level, and use artificial tears as needed, as supported by the most recent evidence from 2024 1. When considering the impact of screen time on eye health, several factors come into play, including reduced blink rate, which can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
- The 20-20-20 rule is recommended: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Positioning the screen at arm's length and slightly below eye level can also help reduce strain.
- Using artificial tears like Systane Ultra or Refresh Tears when eyes feel dry, applying 1-2 drops up to 4 times daily, can provide relief.
- Enabling night mode or blue light filters on devices, especially in the evening, and ensuring proper lighting in the workspace to reduce glare, are also beneficial practices. These recommendations are based on the understanding that digital screens cause a reduction in blink rate, leading to dry eyes and strain, as noted in recent studies 1. Additionally, considering the potential for underlying conditions such as rosacea or Sjögren’s syndrome, which can be associated with dry eye, it is essential to be vigilant about eye health, especially in individuals with increased screen time 1. Regular breaks and proper eye care can help prevent the development of digital eye strain symptoms like headaches, blurred vision, and discomfort, ultimately improving quality of life by reducing morbidity and mortality associated with severe eye conditions.
From the Research
Screen Time and Sensitive Eyes
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that links screen time to sensitive eyes.
- However, the studies suggest that dry eye syndrome can be caused by various factors, and lubricating eye drops can be used to relieve its symptoms 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The studies compared the efficacy of different lubricating eye drops, including carbomer gel, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropyl-guar, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, in treating dry eye syndrome 2, 3, 4.
- The results showed that these lubricating eye drops can improve ocular symptoms, such as dryness, stinging, and foreign body sensation, and increase tear breakup time 2, 3, 4.
- Hydroxypropyl-guar, a thickening agent, has been used in lubricating eye drops to enhance viscosity and prolong the retention of demulcents on the eye, thereby reducing the symptoms of dry eye disease 5.
Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment
- Lubricating eye drops, such as carbomer gel and carboxymethylcellulose, can be used to treat dry eye syndrome 2, 3.
- Hydroxypropyl-guar containing polyethylene glycol 400/propylene glycol and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 0.3% tear substitutes have been shown to be effective in improving ocular surface disease index in cases of dry eye 3.
- A 0.3% hypromellose gel ophthalmic lubricant has been found to be effective in relieving ocular symptoms and improving ocular comfort in patients with moderate to severe dry eye syndrome 4.