Vision Therapy in Cherry Creek

The Connection Between Screen Time and Dry Eye

(303) 321-1606

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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90 Reviews
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- Jul. 10, 2024
I want to extend my gratitude to Jesse for his exceptional customer service today. Visiting from out... of town on business, I realized I ran out of contacts. While my order wouldn't arrive for another week, Jesse went above and beyond by providing trial lenses to use in the meantime. His assistance was invaluable because I literally cannot see without my contacts, and I greatly appreciate his help. ---
- Mar. 13, 2024
Dr. Smith is a great eye doctor, she answered all my questions and made me feel listened to. Happy I... found this practice that is so thorough with all their patients. I also went and saw the other eye doctor here before and felt really comfortable and like he did a thorough job as well.
- Dec. 31, 2023
I can see, and be seen with my new specs
- Nov. 10, 2023
I got my scleral lens and eyeglasses from Sumner Vision. The staffs are excellent, especially Carli,... she helped me to choose glasses and patiently adjusted them when needed.
- Oct. 24, 2023
I’ve had a really positive experience with Sumner Vision. There was a mishap that took place with ... my lenses, and they offered a helping hand to make things right. I certainly appreciate businesses that make the customer feel cared for.
- Oct. 06, 2023
I love Sumner Vision! Dr. Smith and all of the staff are very helpful and patient. I love the glasse... s selection and the top tier equipment. They are always on top of their game.
- Aug. 07, 2023
Dr. Emily Smith is very kind, intelligent and listens to all concerns. Would recommend her for your ... eye care needs!
- Jul. 26, 2023
Dr. Smith is great as she listens to you, takes the time needed in the clinic to dive into your issu... es, and works with your specific situation to create the best option for your vision and your life. It’s nice to have found a trustworthy specialist to see regularly!
- Jun. 02, 2023
Love the staff in the front. The owner was open to my feedback so that is the reason I am leaving a ... 5 star review. They have a nice selection of glasses from great brands. I’m in love with my Dior glasses.
- Feb. 28, 2023
Best place ever they have help me so much with my keratoconus and all my vision needs thanks to dr. ... Emily smith and her team for all the help you guys are amazing👌🙏🏼😍
- Nov. 03, 2021
Informative staff, explaining all facets of the examination. Very helpful team helping me pick out ... my next frame!
- Oct. 11, 2021
Such an easy experience. Loved my exam, felt thorough and clear. Listened to my concerns and took th... e time to address them. Understanding of insurance benefits and options. My doctor was so sweet, made me laugh.
- May. 24, 2021
I got a pair of glasses with blue light filtering lenses and a person named Allen was extremely know... ledgeable and supportive throughout my experience! The office is very spacious and parking is ample. If you are looking for someone who knows this store in and out, ask for him!
- May. 23, 2021
I have been going to Dr Sumner for last 4 years, this is a amazing Optical office with excellent ser... vices from Dr. Sumner and his staff and thank to Alen for his selections on frame glasses to fit for me and my budget. Thank you so much.
- May. 17, 2021
From the time I entered the office, Dr. Sumner and his staff provided professional and comprehensive... optometry services. Each part of the process (insurance/billing, examination, eyeglass fitting) was completed with exceptional skill and expertise. Alan even helped us with a rebate! So grateful to have found an office with such quality care!
- Apr. 03, 2021
The office had such a nice, welcoming vibe. Dr Sumner and the rest of the staff were efficient, prof... essional, and pleasant to work with.
- Apr. 02, 2021
Veronica (Billing and Insurance) is AWESOME! She is extremely helpful and went way beyond what is ... expected to help resolve some insurance issues.
- Feb. 13, 2021
Highly recommend Sumner Vision. Allen really knows his inventory and listened to what I wanted. I wa... s really happy with the glasses he helped me choose :). Barbara and Brittany are wonderful as well, always welcoming and know how to treat their patients properly! 5 stairs to this team :).
- Dec. 06, 2020
Visiting your optometrist can be a bit daunting for some people much like going to the dentist. Ther... e is a lot strange equipment and big words being used which we have no clue as to their meaning. And, then after your exam, you get the hard pressure sale to buy frames and lenses. Well, NOT at Sumner Vision. They are kind and patient and understanding of the process from the patient's point of view. I cannot recommend them highly enough. Do yourself and your eyes a favor by visiting Sumner Vision.
- Oct. 03, 2020
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Dry Eyes in Cherry Creek

Our optometry practice in Cherry Creek

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Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
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  • Aetna
  • Spectera
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  • MetLife

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Consult Sumner Vision for Digital Eye Strain Relief

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

(303) 321-1606