As screen time rises, so does the prevalence of dry eye symptoms among all age groups. Our expert eye doctors are here to help manage dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction effectively.
The increasing prevalence of dry eye and related ocular discomfort is closely linked to our growing reliance on digital screens. This trend is particularly evident as people of all ages spend longer hours on smartphones, computers, and tablets. Our eye doctors are noticing more cases where extended screen time appears to exacerbate the early signs of dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction.
Extended screen time has become a norm in our daily routines—especially during the recent pandemic, when remote work, online education, and virtual social interactions skyrocketed. The surge in digital device usage is accompanied by a noticeable rise in symptoms such as eye discomfort, irritation, and redness. Our eye doctors have observed that even younger adults, in their 20s, start showing subtle signs of dry eye, including meibomian gland damage that was once thought to be exclusive to older patients.
Research indicates that as screen time increases, there is a direct correlation with decreased blink rates and increased tear evaporation. When we fixate on digital screens, our eyes do not blink as often or as completely, and this disrupts the tear film that normally protects and lubricates the eye. The data emerging from clinical studies is convincing—many eye care professionals report that a significant percentage of dry eye cases, especially among the young, are related to prolonged digital device exposure.
One of the main reasons for the increasing prevalence of dry eye with rising screen time is the alteration in natural blinking behavior. Blinking plays a critical role in keeping our eyes lubricated by evenly distributing the tear film. Here’s the thing: when we look at screens for prolonged periods, our blink rate drops and we often have “incomplete” blinks. This means the eyelids do not fully cover the eye, disrupting tear distribution and increasing tear evaporation.
Studies have shown that digital device use not only reduces the frequency of blinks but also affects the quality of each blink. The reduced blink rate leads to a faster breakdown of the tear film, which in turn leaves the ocular surface exposed to hyperosmolarity—a condition that can trigger inflammation and the onset of dry eye disease. These factors are contributing to the noticeable increase in dry eye symptoms among patients with high daily screen exposure.
Take control of your eye health today—schedule an appointment with a top optometrist near you for personalized care.
Historically, dry eye disease was mainly associated with older individuals. However, recent clinical observations reveal that even patients in their 20s are increasingly presenting with dry eye symptoms that are typically linked to long-term high screen usage. In fact, approximately 66% of eye care professionals have noted an upsurge in screen-related eye issues, while about 88% attribute these issues to heavy smartphone use.
Interestingly, many younger patients report eye discomfort and pain without the classic corneal staining that one might expect to see with more advanced dry eye disease. This suggests that their ocular nerves are already reacting to prolonged screen exposure—even before visible damage occurs. The early glandular changes detected by point-of-care meibography indicate that meibomian gland dysfunction might either be a temporary reaction or could progress to a more permanent state if digital habits are not adjusted.
For these patients, early intervention is key. Our eye doctors often recommend simple strategies such as regular breaks, the use of artificial tears, and even dietary adjustments to help manage symptoms before they escalate into more severe conditions.
The screens we use emit a level of light and heat that is different from natural outdoor light. This digital light can increase the temperature on the ocular surface, thereby accelerating the evaporation of tears. Unlike natural daylight, which has a balanced spectrum, the light from digital screens may disproportionately affect the delicate equilibrium of the tear film.
Another complication is that modern screens are engineered to engage our full attention; this means we tend to focus intently and for longer periods without giving our eyes a chance to rest. The cumulative effect is an increased risk for developing dry eye symptoms due to both the heat and the visual stress imposed by these devices. Adding to the challenge, many of us use screens in environments that are not optimal for eye health, such as overly bright rooms, areas with poor air quality, or places with extreme temperatures—all of which can further irritate the eyes.
Take control of your eye health today—schedule an appointment with a top optometrist near you for personalized care.
Extended screen time is linked to dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction. Learn how to protect your ocular health today.
