Burning in the eyes, a feeling of dryness, fatigue, and sometimes even blurred vision. For many, these are no longer rare symptoms but part of the routine. In recent years, dry eye syndrome has become one of the most common complaints in eye clinics, and doctors report that more and more people experience eye discomfort during the day, especially after long hours in front of screens.
Our eyes are covered by a delicate tear layer whose purpose is to protect the corneal surface, maintain eye moisture, and allow sharp and clear vision. The tear layer is not just a simple liquid but a complex system that includes various components aimed at nourishing the tissues, protecting against contaminants, and keeping the eye’s surface smooth. When the balance of this layer is disturbed or when tears evaporate too quickly, symptoms such as dryness, burning, a feeling of a foreign body in the eye, and sometimes even blurred vision may appear.
Following the security situation in Israel, many people are in a period of uncertainty, and information consumption has increased accordingly. At this time, many work from home and spend longer hours in front of computers and mobile phones. Beyond work itself, many continue to consume information through screens during leisure hours, follow the news, and stay connected to social media. Prolonged screen exposure creates strain on the visual system and can lead to increased symptoms of dry eyes.
According to Prof. Michael Mimouni, Director of the Cornea Unit in the Ophthalmology Department at Rambam Medical Center and Chair of the Cornea Forum, Israel Ophthalmology Association, prolonged screen use changes how the eyes function during the day.
“When looking at a screen for a long time, the blink rate drops significantly. Blinking is an important mechanism that spreads the tear layer over the eye and maintains its stability. When we blink less, the tear layer evaporates faster, creating a feeling of dryness and discomfort.”
He adds that during work on a computer or phone, the blink rate can drop significantly compared to the natural rate. When we focus on a screen, we tend to blink less and sometimes not fully, making it harder to evenly spread the tear layer over the eye.
Not just the screens
Beyond prolonged screen time, there are other factors that can worsen the feeling of eye dryness. Long stays in air-conditioned or dry spaces, extended use of digital devices, accumulated fatigue, and irregular sleep hours can all affect eye health.
In addition, prolonged work at close distance causes the eye muscles to work continuously without a break. This can lead to eye strain and sometimes temporary blurred vision, especially after many hours in front of a computer.
Simple exercises that can relieve the eyes
Alongside reducing screen time as much as possible, a few simple habits can help reduce strain on the eyes during the day.
Conscious blinking
During prolonged computer work, the blink rate drops significantly. It is recommended to pause occasionally and perform a series of slow and full blinks for about ten to fifteen seconds. This helps distribute the tear layer evenly over the eye.
Looking into the distance
Every twenty minutes, it is recommended to shift your gaze from the screen and focus on a distant point for about twenty seconds. This allows the eye muscles to relax and reduces the strain created during prolonged near focus.
Closing the eyes for a short relaxation
Closing the eyes for half a minute to a minute can help relax the eye muscles and encourage natural tear production.
What about appropriate treatment?
According to Prof. Mimouni, “When symptoms of dry eyes appear, artificial tears can be used to help stabilize the tear layer and relieve the feeling of dryness. Today, there are various products available, for example, eye drops containing specialized components such as HP-Guar, a substance that helps create a delicate protective layer over the eye and maintain moisture over time. The purpose of the drops is to improve tear stability and provide a sense of comfort to the eyes throughout the day.”
When should you see a doctor?
In most cases, dry eye syndrome mainly causes discomfort, but when symptoms persist over time or significantly interfere with daily functioning, it is recommended to see an ophthalmologist.
If symptoms appear such as persistent redness, eye pain, prolonged blurred vision, or high light sensitivity, it is important to have a professional assessment to rule out other conditions and receive appropriate treatment.
Ultimately, even in an era where screens have become a central part of work and leisure, awareness of proper usage habits and taking breaks during the day can help maintain eye comfort and long-term eye health.