The Connection Between Digital Screens and Dry Eye

If you spend a lot of time staring at a screen—whether for work, school, or just scrolling through your phone—you’ve probably experienced that dry, gritty feeling in your eyes. In a digital world, dry eye has become increasingly common, especially here in Pensacola, where long hours of screen time are compounded by air conditioning and outdoor elements like heat and humidity. But what exactly is the connection between digital screens and dry eye, and what can you do about it?

Why Screens Make Your Eyes Feel Dry

When you focus on a screen, whether it's a computer, tablet, or phone, your blink rate significantly decreases. Normally, we blink about 15–20 times per minute, which helps spread tears evenly across the eye’s surface. However, studies show that when using digital devices, our blink rate can drop by as much as 50%. Fewer blinks mean your eyes don’t get the moisture they need, leading to dryness, irritation, and discomfort.

Another factor is blue light exposure. While blue light itself doesn’t directly cause dry eye, prolonged exposure to it can contribute to eye strain, making symptoms of dryness feel even worse. Pair that with Pensacola’s air-conditioned offices and coastal breeze pulling moisture from your eyes, and it’s no surprise that so many locals experience dry, irritated eyes at the end of the day.

Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain and Dry Eye

If you find yourself dealing with any of the following symptoms, your screen time could be a major culprit:

Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
Redness and irritation
Blurred vision, especially after prolonged screen use
Sensitivity to light
Feeling like there’s something in your eye
Watery eyes

These symptoms can make it difficult to focus, reduce productivity, and even affect your enjoyment of daily activities.

How to Protect Your Eyes from Screen-Related Dryness

You don’t have to ditch your devices to get relief. Here are a few ways to help keep your eyes comfortable:

Follow the 20-20-20 rule – Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This gives your eyes a chance to rest and naturally rehydrate.
Be mindful of blinking – Make a conscious effort to blink more often when using screens. Try fully closing your eyes for a few seconds every so often to spread moisture evenly.
Use artificial tears – Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help supplement your natural tears and relieve dryness.
Adjust your screen setup – Keep your screen at eye level to reduce strain and position it about 25 inches away from your face. Also, reduce glare by adjusting brightness and contrast settings.
Stay hydrated and take breaks – Drinking enough water and stepping away from screens periodically can help support overall eye health.
Consider blue light protection – Blue light-blocking glasses or screen filters can help minimize strain, making it easier on your eyes.

Find Relief at West Florida Optometry

If dry, irritated eyes are interfering with your daily routine, it’s time to get personalized care. We understand the unique challenges Pensacola residents face, from long work hours in front of screens to the effects of our local climate. We can assess your symptoms, identify the root cause, and recommend treatments tailored to your needs.

Don’t let digital eye strain take over your life, schedule a consultation with West Florida Optometry to find real relief for your dry eyes. Visit our office in Pensacola, Florida, or call (850) 318-5600 to book an appointment today.