Game Over for Eyes: The Link Between Excessive Gaming and Chronic Dry Eye

In recent years, the world of gaming has experienced tremendous growth, captivating millions of players worldwide. While gaming can offer critical thinking and strategy skills, it is important to recognize and understand the potential negative effects associated with excessive screen time. Concern about the potential effects of excessive gaming to your overall eye health is the development of dry eye syndrome, a condition that can lead to discomfort, visual disturbances, and a decrease in overall eye health. 

What is Dry Eye Syndrome? 

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the eyes fail to produce sufficient tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. Tears provide lubrication, reduce the risk of eye infection, wash away foreign matter in the eye and keep the surface of the eyes smooth and clear. However, when dry eye syndrome occurs, it leads to symptoms such as redness, itching, burning sensations, and blurry vision. 

Causes of Gaming-Induced Dry Eye

Prolonged Screen Time: 

• Engaging in gaming sessions for extended periods of time exposes the eyes to continuous screen glare, resulting in reduced blink rates and inadequate lubrication of the eye’s surface.

Reduced Blink Rate: 

• Gamers often become so engrossed in their gameplay that they unconsciously decrease their blink rate. Infrequent blinking hampers the distribution of tears, leading to dryness and discomfort.

Environmental Factors: 

• Gaming environments are often characterized by poor lighting, low humidity, and air conditioning, all of which contribute to an increased risk of dry eye symptoms.

Symptoms of Gaming-Induced Dry Eye

Eye Discomfort: 

• Dry eyes often manifest as a feeling of grittiness, burning, or stinging in the eyes. Gamers may experience these symptoms during or after gaming sessions.

Redness and Irritation:

• Insufficient tear production and prolonged screen exposure can cause redness and irritation in the eyes, making them appear bloodshot and swollen.

Blurred Vision: 

• Dry eyes can lead to blurred or fluctuating vision, making it difficult for gamers to focus on the screen accurately.

Prevention and Management

Take Regular Breaks: 

• Incorporate short breaks into gaming sessions to allow your eyes to rest. Follow the 20-20-20 rule, where every 20 minutes, look away from the screen and focus on an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain and encourages natural blinking.

Blink Consciously: 

• Be mindful of blinking while gaming. Make a conscious effort to blink frequently to keep the eyes lubricated and moist. Consider using preservative-free artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to alleviate dryness. Avoid eye drops that “take the red out.”

Adjust the Gaming Environment: 

• Optimize the lighting conditions in your gaming space. Avoid excessive glare and ensure proper lighting to reduce eye strain. Consider using an anti-glare screen protector for your monitor.

Maintain Eye Hygiene: 

• Keep your eyes clean and free from irritants. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes while gaming, as this can exacerbate dryness. Use a warm compress to soothe any discomfort or dryness.

While gaming can be an enjoyable and a completely immersive experience, it is important to be aware of the potential impacts on eye health. Balancing gaming activities with regular breaks, optimizing the gaming environment, and implementing proper eye care practices are key to maintaining ocular health and enjoying gaming experiences without compromising vision and comfort.

• By adopting preventive measures and practicing good eye hygiene, gamers can minimize risk and alleviate dry eye symptoms. Remember, taking care of your eyes is essential for a healthy and enjoyable gaming experience. 
• The Eye Institute of Salus University’s Dry Eye Clinic focuses on the diagnosis and management of dry eye syndrome. Doctors provide comprehensive dry eye evaluations, using the latest technology, and recommend thorough, customized therapy plans for each patient.

If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, contact the dry eye experts at The Eye Institute. For an appointment, call: 215.276.6111.