The holidays are a time to relax, connect, and celebrate — but they also tend to come with a lot of screen time. Between online shopping, holiday movie marathons, video calls with family, and scrolling through festive photos, your eyes might be working overtime.
At Blumenstock Family Eyecare in Lincoln, we see a noticeable increase in digital eye strain this time of year. Let’s look at why this happens and how to keep your vision comfortable through the season.
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain, or computer vision syndrome, happens when you spend long periods focusing on digital screens. The symptoms can include:
- Dry, irritated, or burning eyes
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Headaches or neck and shoulder pain
- Difficulty refocusing after looking away
These symptoms are common during the holidays when your daily screen habits often change — longer streaming sessions, later nights, and more time on your phone.
Why the Holidays Make Eye Strain Worse
- Increased Screen Time – From online gift shopping to virtual parties, your eyes rarely get a break.
- Dry Indoor Air – Heating systems lower indoor humidity, causing tears to evaporate more quickly.
- Low Winter Light – Dim lighting or glare from decorations and screens can strain your eyes even more.
- Travel Fatigue – Long drives or flights mean more time on devices in poorly lit environments.
How to Protect Your Eyes This Holiday Season
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a mini-vacation and helps prevent focusing fatigue.
2. Blink More Often
We blink up to 60% less when using screens! Make a conscious effort to blink fully — it keeps your eyes lubricated and reduces dryness.
3. Adjust Your Screen Setup
- Keep screens about an arm’s length away.
- Reduce glare with anti-reflective coatings or screen filters.
- Increase text size instead of squinting.
4. Hydrate and Humidify
Drink plenty of water and consider using a humidifier indoors to balance dry winter air.
5. Use Artificial Tears if Needed
Over-the-counter lubricating drops can provide relief. Ask our doctors which formulas are best for your eyes.
6. Get the Right Lenses
If you wear glasses, consider blue light protection or anti-fatigue lenses. These lenses can make a noticeable difference during long digital sessions.
Make Vision Comfort Part of Your Holiday Wellness
Your eyes deserve rest and care just like the rest of you. As you enjoy the holidays, take simple steps to protect your vision — and start the new year with clear, comfortable eyes.
If you’ve been noticing increased eye fatigue or dryness, it might be time for an eye exam.
Our team at Blumenstock Family Eyecare is here to help you find solutions that keep your eyes healthy all year long.
Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam in Lincoln, NE
Before the year ends, use your vision insurance benefits and schedule your appointment with our team.
We’ll make sure your prescription is up to date and your eyes are ready for the new year — screen time and all!