Can prolonged screen time cause red spots and blurry vision?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have noticed small red spots under and inside my eyes, along with blurry vision in both eyes. I work night shifts and spend a significant amount of time looking at my laptop. When I first noticed the redness, I had not gotten enough sleep.

I would like to understand what could be causing these symptoms and what treatment or measures I can take to manage them.

Kindly suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The redness in your eyes is most likely due to dry eye, which is very common and often caused by tear film instability. As you mentioned, spending long hours working on a laptop can significantly contribute to dry eye symptoms.

Please follow the suggestions below that will help relieve your symptoms:

Adjust the lighting in your workspace and increase the contrast on your computer screen.
Maintain an arm’s length distance from your computer screen.
Use blue light–blocking filters on your screen.
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take your eyes off the screen and look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Practice blinking exercises every 20 minutes: close your eyes for two seconds, open them, close again for two seconds, and then gently squeeze for two seconds. This helps reduce dry eye symptoms.
Use preservative-free lubricating eye drops, such as eye drops Optive (Carboxymethyl cellulose), four times a day for one month.
Also, include green leafy vegetables, carrots, and fish in your diet.

These methods will help you with dry eyes, and I also suggest you consult an eye doctor before taking the prescribed medication. They will check your eye condition and guide you.

I hope you find this helpful.

Thank you.