Spending long hours staring at screens can cause eye discomfort, dryness, and irritation. Optometrist and eye health advocate Dr James Freeman Duah-Bisiw attributes this to digital eye strain. He spoke on TV3's The Afternoon Show on October 8, 2026, about the effects of prolonged screen exposure on eye health. According to Dr Duah-Bisiw, people tend to blink less when concentrating on screens, disrupting the tear film that keeps the eyes lubricated.
Dr Duah-Bisiw explains that reduced blinking leads to a gritty sensation, redness, intermittent blurred vision, or excessive tearing. Watery eyes can be a response to dryness as the eyes try to restore moisture and relieve discomfort. He notes that although prolonged screen use does not cause permanent eye damage, it contributes to visual discomfort and impairment. This highlights the importance of being aware of the risks associated with extended screen time.
Children who spend extended periods on tablets and other screens are particularly affected, especially when they use devices continuously without taking breaks. Dr Duah-Bisiw's advice emphasizes the need for regular breaks from screens and attention to recurring eye discomforts. His warnings are crucial in today's digital age, where screen time is an integral part of daily life.
Digital eye strain occurs partly because the eyes must work harder to maintain focus on nearby objects for extended periods. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including dry eyes, headaches, and eye fatigue. Dr Duah-Bisiw's comments highlight the need for individuals to take proactive steps to protect their eye health.
The effects of digital eye strain can be mitigated by taking regular breaks from screens, blinking regularly, and adjusting display settings to reduce eye strain. Dr Duah-Bisiw's advice is particularly relevant for individuals who spend long hours working on computers or using mobile devices. By being aware of the risks and taking preventive measures, individuals can reduce their risk of digital eye strain.
In Ghana, where access to eye care services can be limited, Dr Duah-Bisiw's warnings are particularly relevant. His advocacy for eye health highlights the need for increased awareness about the risks associated with digital eye strain. By educating the public about the risks and prevention strategies, Dr Duah-Bisiw aims to promote eye health and reduce the incidence of digital eye strain.
As screen time continues to increase in daily life, Dr Duah-Bisiw's advice serves as a reminder of the importance of taking care of one's eye health. By taking proactive steps to protect their eyes, individuals can reduce their risk of digital eye strain and promote overall eye health. This is particularly crucial for children, who are increasingly exposed to screens from a young age.
Key points
- Prolonged screen exposure can contribute to dry eyes and other symptoms associated with digital eye strain.
- Reduced blinking when concentrating on screens disrupts the tear film that keeps the eyes lubricated.
- Taking regular breaks from screens and paying attention to recurring eye discomforts can mitigate the effects of digital eye strain.
