It’s best to take action (Image: IsiMS via Getty Images)
An optometrist has issued a warning to those suffering from dry eyes, cautioning that it’s not a symptom to be brushed aside. Ignoring this could lead to the development of dry eye disease, which can trigger headaches, poor focus and eye pain.
Francesca Marchetti, an optometrist from eye drops, revealed that research conducted by the company involving 1,014 Brits aged between 18 and 55 found that a staggering 83% of screen users reported feeling their eyes becoming tired, dry and/or gritty after prolonged use. She further noted that 38% of respondents associated extended screen use with dry eye disease.
This is because staring at a screen reduces blinking – a natural process that helps keep our eyes lubricated with tears. A study by the discovered that computer users blinked 66% less frequently.
Francesca said: “Dry eye disease occurs when tears can’t provide enough lubrication for the eyes, resulting in dry eyes. This can affect overall health, causing issues like headaches, poor focus, tired eyes and even eye pain. As well as excessive screen time, there are other causes of dry eye disease too.
“Age is a factor as from the age of 39, the quantity and quality of tears produced by the . Hormonal factors play a part too; post-menopausal women over 50 are twice as likely to have dry eye disease as men over 50 due to changing levels of the hormones oestrogen and androgen which can cause a reduction in tear production.
Screen use can cause the problem (Image: Kawee Srital-on via Getty Images)
“The weather, including sun and wind, as well as central heating and even eye makeup and contact lenses, can also trigger dry eyes. Luckily there are ways to help relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of tired, dry eyes.”
Relieving tired, dry, eyes
Stick to the 20:20:20 rule
Francesca said: “Taking screen breaks is a huge step towards supporting your eye health. Try to look at something at least 20 feet away every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds. And if you can, cut down on unnecessary screen time such as doom scrolling or watching TV before bed.”
It’s best not to ignore it (Image: Burak Sür via Getty Images)
Dry eye disease: Don’t ignore tired, dry eyes
Francesca said: “It’s vital to act when you notice dry eye symptoms as your eyes are precious, so if they’re tired or dry, go for a scientifically dry eye treatment solution and here I recommend New Rohto Dry Aid Fresh Boost eye drops, which help hydrate tired, dry eyes with a refreshing, cooling, awakening sensation and protect them from further damage.”
Keep blinking
Francesca said: “We naturally blink on autopilot, but screen time reduces this, potentially leading to dry eye disease. Be sure to pay attention to your blinks. This will go hand in hand with screen breaks; looking away to blink and regenerate your eyes is a big step towards supporting your eye health.”
Cover your eyes
Francesca said: “If you’re out and about on a sunny or windy day consider wearing sunglasses, particularly wraparound glasses. This stops harsh conditions from affecting your eyes and also stops debris from entering your eyes, which can cause irritation.”
Turn down the heating
Francesca said: “It’s still cold enough outside to justify keeping the central heating on, but if you can, turn down the temperature. Central heating and air conditioning can really impact your eye health, leading to symptoms of dry eye disease. Try using a humidifier and setting the heating to a lower setting.”