Dry eyes disease is becoming increasingly common, especially in this digital age. In fact, it’s one of the most frequent reasons why people see an optometrist. Let’s break it down in a way that’s simple to understand.
What Is Dry Eyes Disease?
Dry eyes disease happens when your eyes don’t produce enough good-quality tears. Tears are important. They’re not just water, they’re a mix of oil, water, and mucus that keep your eyes moist, comfortable, and protected.
When something goes wrong with tear production, your eyes can feel dry, gritty, and irritated. In some cases, they might even water too much as a response—but these are usually poor-quality tears that evaporate quickly.
How Do Tears Work?
To understand dry eyes, we need to understand how tears work. Tears have three important layers:
- Oil (Lipid) Layer: This is the outermost layer. It prevents your tears from evaporating too fast.
- Water (Aqueous) Layer: The middle layer that provides moisture and helps wash away dust and debris.
- Mucin Layer: The innermost layer that helps the water spread evenly over the surface of your eye.
When one or more of these layers don’t work properly, you get dry eyes symptoms.
Why Are Screens Making It Worse?
Digital screens such as phones, computers, tablets, or TVs are a big part of our lives. But here’s the problem: when you look at screens, you blink less. Normally, you blink about 15 to 20 times per minute. But during screen time, that drops to around 5 to 7 times per minute.
Blinking is how we spread our tears over the eyes. Less blinking means less lubrication. That’s why your eyes start to feel dry, tired, or strained after looking at screens too long.
Symptoms of Dry Eyes
Dry eyes can show up in many ways. You might have one or more of these symptoms:
- Burning, stinging, or scratchy sensation
- Red or irritated eyes
- Blurred or fluctuating vision (that improves after blinking)
- Watery eyes (surprisingly, this is your eyes overcompensating!)
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye fatigue, especially after reading or using screens
- Mucus discharge from the eyes
What Causes Dry Eyes?
There are many reasons why people get dry eyes. Some of them are related to screen time, while others are not. Let’s look at the main causes.
- Screen Time
We blink less when staring at screens. Less blinking = less tears spread on the eyes. - Air-Conditioning and Fans
Sitting under a fan or working in an air-conditioned room all day can dry out your eyes faster. - Ageing
As we age, our tear production slows down. People over 50 are more likely to suffer from dry eyes. - Hormones
Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or birth control use can affect tear production. - Medications
Certain medications like antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs can dry out your eyes. - Contact Lenses
Wearing contact lenses too long can block oxygen and reduce eye moisture. - Medical Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid problems, and lupus can lead to dry eyes. - Surgery
Some people experience temporary dry eyes after LASIK or other eye surgeries. - Poor Sleep
Lack of quality sleep has been linked to dry eyes. Your eyes need rest just like your body.
Treatment for Dry Eyes
There are many reasons why people get dry eyes. Some of them are related to screen time, while others are not. Let’s look at the main causes.
- Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter eye drops can give quick relief. For mild to moderate dry eyes, regular artificial tears are enough. For more serious cases, thicker gels or ointments may help—especially before bed. - Punctal Plugs
Tiny plugs inserted into your tear ducts help keep your tears from draining away too quickly. These are especially helpful if your eyes dry out very fast. - Warm Compresses
Using a warm compress can help unclog oil glands in your eyelids. This helps improve the oil layer of your tears. - Blink More
It sounds simple, but reminding yourself to blink more can really help. Try blinking fully and gently every few minutes when using screens. - Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This gives your eyes a rest. - Diet and Supplements
Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can reduce inflammation and improve tear quality. Try adding foods like salmon, chia seeds, walnuts, and leafy greens to your diet.
When to See an Optometrist
Dry eyes are usually not dangerous, but they can affect your vision and comfort. If your symptoms don’t go away with simple fixes like artificial tears or lifestyle changes, it’s time to see a professional.
An optometrist can examine your tear quality and volume and recommend the best treatment for your situation. They may also screen for other issues like allergies, eyelid conditions, or inflammation.
Book an Appointment Today
If your eyes are feeling dry, gritty, or just uncomfortable, let us help. Whether it’s due to screens, age, or something else—we can find the root of the problem and offer the best solution for you.
United Optometrist @ Square 2 (Novena MRT🚇)
⏰ Mon-Sun 11.30am – 8pm📲 WhatsApp us
📞 63976885
United Eyecare @ Boon Keng MRT🚇
⏰ Mon-Sun 10.30am – 7.30pm
📲 WhatsApp us
📞 62978298
