Expert urges breaks from screens to prevent 'Dry Eye' syndrome

"When we stare at digital screens, our blink rate decreases by a staggering 60 to 70 per cent and this reduction in blinking significantly increases the risk of developing dry eye syndrome (DES)," said Jinnah Medical & Dental College Head of the Ophthalmology Department, Dr Shahid Azeem Mirza.

While talking to the media, he advised regular breaks from screens to prevent DES. According to him, as people spend more time staring at digital devices, they tend to blink less, disrupting the natural tear flow and leading to dry, irritated eyes. If left unchecked, the syndrome can cause discomfort, blurred vision, and even long-term damage to the eyes. To combat DES, Dr Shahid Azeem Mirza recommends incorporating a simple yet effective blinking exercise into your daily routine.

He suggested setting reminders on digital devices to pop up every few minutes, serving as a prompt to blink and reduce DES symptoms. He emphasised that blinking plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy eyes by replenishing the tear film.

He further cautioned against the excessive use of screens among children, citing the potential for long-term damage to their eye health. He emphasised that children's eyes are still developing, making them more susceptible to the negative effects of prolonged screen time.

The ophthalmologist urged parents to monitor and limit their children's screen time, encouraging alternative activities that promote physical and mental well-being. He added that by setting boundaries and promoting healthy habits, parents can help protect their children's eye health and reduce the risk of developing dry eye syndrome and other vision-related problems.

Another common culprit behind eye strain that was highlighted was the glare from screens.