Screen use causes eye dryness and fatigue, French doctor recommends preventive measures

Prolonged computer work, especially five days a week, can lead to eye dryness and visual fatigue, explained Dr. Mathias Tatry, ophthalmologist at the Hôpital des 15‑20 in Paris. He notes that reduced blinking – “abortive blinking” – and blue‑light exposure dry the ocular surface, producing burning, itching, a gritty sensation and, for some, blurred or double vision and headaches.

Risk factors include natural tear‑film composition, conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome, certain medications, and hypermetropia, which forces the eyes to work harder on close tasks. To mitigate the effects, Dr. Tatry advises avoiding direct airflow from air‑conditioning, using a desk‑humidifier, lowering the screen so the gaze is slightly downward, and applying artificial tears or practicing forced blinking. He also recommends the 20‑20‑20 rule – looking at an object at least 20 metres away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes – and using “rest glasses” to correct mild hypermetropia and reduce accommodation strain. Patients with persistent symptoms should consult an ophthalmologist for further evaluation.