Vision Therapy in Cocoa

The Connection Between Screen Time and Dry Eye

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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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378 Reviews
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- Dec. 13, 2024
Dr. Girard explained what he was doing and why. Answered all my questions and was not rushing throug... h his examination of my results. The staff was very friendly and professional. I would highly recommend Visionary Optometry.
- Nov. 29, 2024
Amazing doctor and great staff.
- Nov. 21, 2024
Thank you for being so professional and personable over the years. You deserve 10 stars!
- Nov. 20, 2024
Excellent optometry practice. Dr. Girard and his staff are all highly qualified professionals and h... ave a real knack for putting their patients at ease. Dr. Girard discusses your exam and finding with you in plain language. He is one of the best eye doctors I have ever had. Highly recommend this business.
- Nov. 19, 2024
Always a great experience with Dr. Girard and staff. Friendly and professional.
- Nov. 12, 2024
The staff and doctor were very helpful and friendly.
- Nov. 09, 2024
The doctor and staff are absolutely fantastic.
- Nov. 07, 2024
The office staff is very kind and helpful and efficient. Theres not a long wait. Dr.Girard very thor... ough and listens to your concerns. The facility is kept nicely cleaned and always smells wonderful.
- Aug. 08, 2024
Dr Girard is amazing. Best eye doctor I have been too. Great staff also. Give them a try they are ... fantastic.
- Aug. 04, 2024
Everyone from the receptionist to the technician and the wonderful Doctor was great 👍😃. He rea... lly cares. I 💕 him, .
- Jul. 29, 2024
Love the staff at Visionary Optometry! Dr. Girard is an excellent eye doctor.
- Jul. 09, 2024
This place is it! I felt so welcomed and comfortable. I was worried about keeping my appointment bec... ause my babysitter canceled on me. They not only welcomed the idea of me bringing my 4-year-old but they also had a play area to keep her entertained as I filled out my information on a user-friendly tablet. We started our appointment immediately afterward. Everyone we interacted with was kind and professional, especially the doctor. He was thorough in his exam and ensured I had no doubts. The shopping experience for glasses was surprisingly affordable, and the assistant helped me understand all my options, leaving me satisfied and happy. I highly recommend this optometry practice and can't SEE going anywhere else (pun intended).
- Jun. 19, 2024
Absolutely wonderful, my only regret is I had not gone here earlier. Don't put off your eye exam an... d I would not go any place other than here. Once you try this office you will never go anywhere else. I know I have received the top notch eye exam by an eye doctor who surpasses any words I could use in my recommendation.
- Jun. 17, 2024
They care about the customers
- Jun. 13, 2024
DR. GIRARD WORKS IN DETAIL AND DISCOVERED MY CATARACTS. HE ALSO CHECKED THE POSSIBILITY OF HAVING G... LAUCOMA DUE TO FAMILY CASES BUT AT THIS TIME I AM CLEAR. GREAT DOCTOR.
- Feb. 19, 2024
The entire staff were phenomenal with my six year old son! Very patient and compassionate! Highly re... commend!!
- Feb. 12, 2024
First time patient and was absolutely thankful for there care and patience glad to have them as my n... ew optometrist.
- Feb. 10, 2024
Dr Girard and his staff are outstanding! I’ve been a patient of theirs for many years. I have my r... outine eye exams done every year and have bought many sets of glasses for them. They always remember me and treat me with kindness. Special shout out to Casey. She is SO sweet and helpful! Every time I order glasses or just need an adjustment, she does it with a smile and sense of humor. This type of customer service can be rare these days but very much appreciated. THANK YOU!! Dr Girard you have a long time patient who recognizes excellence in your services and staff.
- Sep. 26, 2023
I love Visionary Optometry! I’ve been going to them since 2008 and they’ve always accommodated m... y every need. The staff is first class and Brooke and Casey put up with me no matter what. They’re awesome!
- Sep. 23, 2023
Great service. Always a relaxed and smooth visit. All vision details explained in simple terms. Sati... sfied patient going on 5 years.

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Dry Eyes in Cocoa

Our optometry practice in Cocoa

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Consult Visionary Optometry - Dr. Micah Girard for Digital Eye Strain Relief

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

(321) 638-3931