How to stop your eyes from ‘burning’ through excessive screen usage

Heavy screen-time usage has been linked to reports of burning sensation and discomfort in the eyes, in addition to redness, tears and blurred vision.

According to OnlyMyHealth, these symptoms occur after long periods of screen use, especially if breaks are not taken.

The burning sensation in the eyes after extended phone use is often linked to digital eye strain and dry eyes, rather than any permanent eye damage.

Other factors, such as reduced blinking, wearing contact lenses, dry air, and pre-existing eye issues, also contribute to an increased burning feeling in the eyes.

The eyes exert greater effort while using a screen and blinking decreases, leading to dryness and irritation.

A very thin layer of tears on the surface of your eyes keeps them moist, and every blink completely covers the eye in moisture.

However, when using a mobile phone, the frequency of blinking drops, which leads to dry eyes, stinging, and irritation.

Additionally, digital eye strain can stem from surface eye dryness alongside issues with visual focus or binocular vision.

How can you prevent your eyes from burning?

1. Apply the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away (approximately 6 meters) for at least 20 seconds.
2. Read more slowly: Slow down your reading or browsing speed and consciously think about blinking your eyes.
3. Focus on your eyes while reading: Take your time to focus on your eyes while reading, blinking slowly and completely as you read or scroll.
4. Keep the phone at a comfortable distance: This distance varies depending on vision, but it is typically around 40 centimeters.
5. Lower brightness and enlarge text: Try to match the screen brightness with the surrounding ambient light, and make the text larger instead of squinting.
6. Reduce glare: Do not look at the phone under reflected light from windows or overhead lighting.
7. Make sure to take sufficient breaks: Set the phone aside periodically and check that you are maintaining proper distance from it.
8. Avoid dry air: Do not sit directly in front of a fan or an air conditioner vent.
9. Ensure you get enough sleep: The eyes may feel increased discomfort after prolonged screen exposure if you are sleep-deprived.

If dry eye symptoms persist, consult an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) regarding the use of lubricating eye drops, and avoid frequently using eye drops meant for removing redness, as they do not resolve the underlying issue.