Children and Dry Eye: Identifying Symptoms and Seeking Treatment

In today’s digital age, children are spending more time on screens than ever before. While technology offers many benefits for learning and entertainment, it has also contributed to a growing concern in pediatric eye care: dry eye syndrome. Parents may not always recognize the signs, but early detection and treatment are key to keeping young eyes comfortable and healthy.
 

Why Screen Time Causes Dry Eye in Kids

When children spend long hours on digital devices, their blinking rate naturally decreases. Blinking is essential because it spreads tears across the surface of the eye, keeping it moist and protected. Less blinking means the tears evaporate more quickly, leading to dryness and irritation. Additionally, indoor environments with air conditioning or heating can make the problem worse, further contributing to dry eye symptoms.
 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye in Children

Dry eye in kids may not always be obvious, but here are some symptoms parents should look out for:

• Frequent eye rubbing or blinking

• Red, irritated eyes

• Complaints of burning or stinging

• Trouble focusing on schoolwork or reading

• Increased sensitivity to light

• A feeling of something “stuck” in the eye

Because children don’t always explain discomfort clearly, parents and teachers may mistake these signs for other issues like fatigue or lack of attention.
 

When to Seek Professional Help

If your child regularly experiences these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. An optometrist can evaluate their tear production and eye surface health to determine whether dry eye is the cause. Left untreated, dry eye can interfere with vision, make schoolwork more challenging, and affect a child’s overall quality of life. Fortunately, treatments are available and effective.
 

Treatment Options for Children’s Dry Eye

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition but may include:

• Lifestyle adjustments: Encouraging screen breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

• Artificial tears or lubricating drops: To keep the eyes moist.

• Environmental changes: Using humidifiers or adjusting airflow in the home.

• Blue light blocking glasses: To help reduce digital eye strain from prolonged screen use.
 

Keep Young Eyes Healthy and Comfortable

Dry eye in children is on the rise, particularly due to increased screen time, but the good news is that it can be managed effectively once identified. By paying attention to symptoms and seeking timely treatment, parents can help their children enjoy clear, comfortable vision every day.

If you’ve noticed signs of dry eye in your child, schedule a consultation with Eye Care North to ensure your child’s eyes are healthy and comfortable. Visit our office in Cave Creek, Arizona, or call (480) 781-4446 to book an appointment today.