We live in a world where digital devices are an integral part of our daily lives. From working on our computers and binge-watching our favorite shows to scrolling through social media and gaming sessions with friends, our eyes are constantly glued to screens. While this technology keeps us connected and entertained, it also comes with issues—like eye strain and dry eyes. If you’ve been dealing with discomfort, itching, or a gritty feeling in your eyes, you don’t have to live with dry, uncomfortable eyes anymore. Here are some tips and treatments to help you manage these symptoms and keep your eyes feeling comfortable.  

Why digital screens are a problem for your eyes 

There’s no avoiding digital devices nowadays, but they can be tough on your eyes. When we focus on screens for long periods, we tend to blink less, which means our eyes don’t get the moisture they need. This can lead to dry, itchy, and irritated eyes. Plus, the blue light from screens can cause additional eye strain and fatigue, exacerbating your symptoms.  

Signs you might have dry eyes 

Do your eyes feel dry, gritty, or tired after a long day staring at screens? Is your vision blurry or do your contact lenses feel uncomfortable after working or gaming for hours? These are common signs of dry eyes. You might also experience redness, a burning sensation, or increased sensitivity to light. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s important to treat your symptoms. If your condition is mild, it may only bother you for a day. However, if left untreated, dry eye can develop into a chronic condition and lead to complications.  

Here are some tips to help you ease discomfort: 

• Take regular breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple trick can help reduce or prevent eye strain. 
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your body and your eyes hydrated.  
• Use artificial tears: Over-the-counter eye drops can provide temporary relief, but they won’t address the underlying cause of dry eyes. If these eye drops aren’t providing sufficient relief, schedule a comprehensive eye exam in St. Louis or St. Charles with our experts.  
• Adjust your environment: Use a humidifier to keep the air moist and avoid direct air from fans or air conditioning blowing directly into your face. 
• Blink more often: Remind yourself to blink regularly, especially when you’re focused on a screen. This helps spread the tear film evenly across your eyes. 

When dry eye is difficult to treat 

Sometimes, at-home remedies and eye drops aren’t enough to relieve your symptoms. In these cases, it is best to see an eye care professional like our eye doctors in Overland and St. Charles. Other factors besides screen time could be causing your dry eyes, such as taking certain medications, an underlying medical condition, or wearing the wrong type or brand of contact lenses. Our eye doctor can help you get to the root of the problem and find the right treatment for lasting relief.  

Schedule an eye exam at Overland Optical Family Eye Care 

Don’t let dry eyes hold you back. Whether you’re in St. Louis or St. Charles, Overland Optical Family Eye Care can help you find the best solutions for your needs. From blue light blocking glasses to warm compresses or eye drops, we will get you back to seeing comfortably and clearly again. Contact our office in Overland, MO (314-423-3874) or St. Charles, MO (636-949-2900) to schedule your eye exam today.