In today’s modern world, screens are everywhere—computers at work, smartphones in hand, tablets for reading, and TVs for unwinding. While technology keeps us connected and productive, it can also take a toll on our eyes. If you've ever felt your eyes burning, itchy, or just plain tired after hours of screen time, you’re not alone. These are common symptoms of dry eye syndrome, a condition that’s becoming increasingly prevalent as screen use rises.

How Screens Contribute to Dry Eye

When you stare at a screen, your blink rate decreases significantly—sometimes by up to 50%. This means your eyes aren’t being properly lubricated, leading to dryness, irritation, and even blurred vision. The blue light emitted from screens can also contribute to eye strain and discomfort. Over time, these factors can make dry eye symptoms worse, impacting your focus and overall eye health.

Tips to Protect Your Eyes from Screen-Related Dryness

While cutting out screens entirely isn’t realistic, small changes can make a big difference. Here’s how you can protect your eyes:

•       Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a break and reduces strain.

•       Adjust Your Screen Settings: Lowering screen brightness, increasing text size, and enabling night mode can reduce the strain on your eyes.

•       Use Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops can help replenish moisture, especially if you spend long hours in front of a screen. Look for preservative-free options to avoid irritation.

•       Position Your Screen Correctly: Keep your screen at arm’s length and slightly below eye level to encourage a more natural, relaxed viewing posture.

•       Invest in a Humidifier: Dry indoor air—especially from heaters or air conditioning—can make dry eye worse. A humidifier helps maintain moisture levels in the air, keeping your eyes comfortable.

When to See Our Doctor

If your eyes feel constantly dry, gritty, or irritated, and over-the-counter drops aren’t helping, it’s time to see a professional. Chronic dry eye can lead to inflammation, damage to the eye’s surface, and long-term discomfort if left untreated. At Inland Family Optometry, we offer advanced dry eye treatments tailored to your needs.

•       IPL (Intense Pulsed Light Therapy): IPL helps reduce inflammation and improves meibomian gland function, which plays a key role in keeping your eyes lubricated. It’s particularly effective for chronic dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

•       NuLIDS PRO: This device helps stimulate the eyelid glands, improving oil flow and reducing dry eye symptoms. It’s a great option for daily dry eye maintenance.

•       MiBoFlo Thermal Treatment: Using gentle thermoelectric heat, MiBoFlo helps unclog and restore meibomian gland function, allowing for better tear production and long-term relief from dry eye symptoms.

Find Long-Term Relief for Dry Eye at Inland Family Optometry

If screen time is leaving your eyes feeling dry, strained, or irritated, it’s important to take action before the discomfort becomes a daily struggle. Small adjustments can help, but if your symptoms persist, professional treatment can provide long-term relief.

Don’t wait for dry eye to disrupt your daily life, schedule a consultation with Inland Family Optometry and take the first step toward effective relief. Contact our office in Chino, California, by calling (909) 345-9809 to book an appointment today.