An optometrist has issued a warning to anyone experiencing dry eyes – saying it is not something to be ignored. Doing so could lead to dry eye disease, which in turn could cause issues such as headaches, poor focus and eye pain.
Optometrist Francesca Marchetti, from Rohto Dry Aid Fresh Boost eye drops, said research by the company, involving 1,014 Brits aged 18 to 55, found that 83% of Brits who used screens said they could feel their eyes getting tired, dry and/or gritty if they used them all day.
She added that 38% of those spoken to linked prolonged screen use to dry eye disease. After all, when you stare at a screen, you blink less, and blinking is the eyes way of helping to keep eyes lubricated with tears. A study by the University of Iowa found that people blinked 66% less while they were on a computer.
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 body decreases. 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.
“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.”
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.”