Vision Therapy in Lee's Summit

The Connection Between Screen Time and Dry Eye

(816) 524-7400

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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377 Reviews
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- Feb. 08, 2024
I’ve been a patient here for several years. I love the fact that they work with you to maximize yo... ur insurance benefits. Both DrDrake & DrDrake are amazing. I’m in the medical field as well & I’m not easily impressed. I’ve had nothing but good experiences here! I highly recommend them!
- Jun. 17, 2023
CustomEyes has the best opticians and the best selection of contacts/glasses available and “in sty... le”. I’m always pleased with my visits, the doctors are always fast, friendly and very helpful. They got newer inventory for glasses such as Tiffany and co, Gucci and more. The girls who help with purchasing glasses and contacts are always super friendly/helpful as well and explain everything such as insurance/and lenses options greatly. Definitely happy with my new Tiffany and co prescription glasses! I can’t wait to pick them up.
- May. 09, 2023
I've been a patient here for 12 years! Excellent service and awesome optometrist! I recommend Custom... Eyes!
- May. 01, 2023
Absolutely the best staff and crew, companionate, attentive, empathetic. These guys were very profes... sional, they didn’t treat me any differently than anyone else. The other offices I visited definitely did not exhibit or display that same love. Very grateful for Dr. Drake and his team. Absolutely the best
- Dec. 22, 2022
Exceptionally friendly and helpful staff. The best optometry appointment I have ever had. From the f... ront desk all the way to the doctor, this place is fantastic.
- Jul. 03, 2022
I was warmly greeted by staff members. I liked the relaxed atmosphere, and the professionalism of th... e Optometrist, and the technicians that assisted him. I left the office feeling that I had been completely taken care of.
- Jun. 09, 2022
Been going to Dr Jeffrey for years and the place is top notch and they're happy to answer any questi... ons you may have.
- Apr. 29, 2022
I have to say that was my first visit to the eye doctor, it was smooth, the staff very friendly and ... the environment was clean and welcoming.
- Apr. 04, 2022
Very nice doctors and staff. Take the time to do a careful and thorough examination.
- Apr. 02, 2022
Friendly staff, very detailed exam, efficient process, very clean office.
- Mar. 09, 2022
I am from Colorado, and in Missouri taking care of my elderly parents. I had an emergency in January... and on a Saturday. I called CustomEyes, they were one of the very few clinics open on a Saturday. They were very friendly, and able to squeeze me into the schedule. I found myself staying in Missouri, and possibly relocating here. I've been due for an eye exam, so I gave CustomEyes a call because I was so impressed and comfortable at my original appointment. I saw Dr. A. Genilo, both times and everyone, from her, check in, techs, optical, and check out, was friendly and professional. I would highly recommend this office to anyone. I feel very comfortable saying, I have found my new eye care clinic and will definitely return. Thank you to everyone at CustomEyes!
- Feb. 15, 2022
Been using custom eyes for years. Always a great experience each year.
- Feb. 13, 2022
Took my 2 year old daughter to have her first eye exam she was seen by Dr.Ali Genilo. I absolutely l... ove love love this doctor and the staff. She made my daughter comfortable and fun with the different props she had.. I was so pleased with Custom Eyes I made me and my husband a eye appointment.. Don't hesitate call today!
- Feb. 10, 2022
The doctor and staff were extremely friendly and helpful. It's one of the cleanest places I've been ... to. Everyone was masked and washed hands before touching anyone. I felt very safe. The exam was thorough and I didn't feel rushed to choose new frames. They went out of their way checking my insurance and making sure I got the best price. I actually paid half here what I paid at the "discount" place.
- Jan. 22, 2022
So appreciative that they were able to work me in quickly when I woke up with eye pain- and fortunat... ely nothing serious, had multiple suggestions to help with condition.
- Jan. 15, 2022
Brenda is amazing. She knows what looks good and makes recommendations I would have never thought o... f. Love this place!!
- Jan. 11, 2022
My appointment was conducted in a timely manner. Everyone was including friendly and informative and... made my experience extremely pleasant and straight forward.
- Jan. 04, 2022
Professional staff, timely appointment and they care about your eye health.
- Dec. 11, 2021
I have been a patient of custom eyes and originally Dr Drake for more than 20 years. Dr E. continues... the same quality of care.
- Dec. 10, 2021
We love the staff and doctors. They alway make you feel welcome and comfortable. They have a wide se... lection of eyewear as well

View All 377 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Lee's Summit

Our optometry practice in Lee's Summit

Photograph of Aaron  Cheng
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday By Appointment Only
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

man using computer

Consult CustomEyes - Lee's Summit for Digital Eye Strain Relief

Although lifestyle changes can be helpful, more effective dry eye management strategies may be necessary in some cases. CustomEyes - Lee's Summit 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 CustomEyes - Lee's Summit to discuss dry eye management options. Let's work together to protect their eyesight and ensure a bright future.

(816) 524-7400