The phrase "digital eye" essentially refers to any problems that arise from this overuse of digital devices. The symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they often include issues like blurred vision, difficulty focusing, headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and of course, dry eyes.

The Connection Between Digital Eye and Dry Eye

Dry eye and eye strain from computer screens often go hand in hand. When we stare at a screen for extended periods, we tend to blink less frequently. This lack of blinking can cause our eyes to dry out, leading to discomfort and potentially damaging the surface of our eyes.

The problem isn't just that we're blinking less—it's also that the quality of our blinks decreases when we're focused on a screen. When we blink, we're not just moistening our eyes, we're also spreading a thin layer of oil across them that helps keep moisture in. If we're not blinking properly, this oil layer can break down, leading to even more dryness.

Additionally, the light that digital screens emit can also contribute to dry eye. Many digital devices emit a type of light known as blue light, which has been found to potentially cause harm to our eyes over time. Blue light can cause our eyes to strain, which in turn can lead to dry eye.

Symptoms of Dry Eye Caused by Digital Devices

Dry eye caused by digital devices is often characterized by a combination of symptoms. These can include a stinging or burning sensation in the eyes, a scratchy feeling as if something is in the eye, and excessive watering or tearing. Some people may also experience blurred vision or sensitivity to light.

These symptoms can range in severity, and they often get worse over time or towards the end of the day. You might also notice that your symptoms get worse when you're in certain environments, like in a dry, air-conditioned office, or when you're doing certain activities, like reading or using a computer.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. Dry eye isn't just uncomfortable, it can also cause damage to your eyes if left untreated.

 

How to Protect Your Eyes in the Digital Age

There are several steps you can take to protect your eyes in the digital age. The first is to follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This can help to reduce eye strain and give your eyes a much-needed break.

It is important to make sure your workspace is set up correctly. Your monitor should be at eye level and about an arm's length away. You should also adjust the brightness and contrast of your screen to a comfortable level.

Using artificial tears can also help to keep your eyes moist and relieve dry eye symptoms. If you're suffering from severe dry eye, you may want to consider speaking with a healthcare professional about other treatment options, like prescription eye drops or punctal plugs.

 

Conclusion

The rise of digital devices has brought with it a host of eye health challenges. Digital eye strain and dry eye are now common issues for many people, but with the right understanding and practices, we can mitigate their impact.

While it's nearly impossible to avoid digital devices entirely in this day and age, we can take steps to protect our eyes. This includes taking regular breaks from screens, adjusting our workspace, and seeking medical attention if we experience severe dry eye symptoms.

For more information on the link between dry eye and digital devices, contact Mid-Modern Eyecare at our Midland, Michigan office. Call (989) 486-3025 to schedule an appointment today.