When reading documents on a computer, prolonged eye strain can lead to dry eyes and subsequent eye discomfort.
This conclusion was reached by scientists from Ohio, USA, after conducting a survey and study.
The researchers studied 10 students and found that their blinking rate decreased to an average of only 7.5 times per minute, down from the normal rate of 15 times per minute, while reading documents on the computer.
According to the scientists, a reduction in blinking means fewer opportunities for the eyes to “re-moisten,” increasing the risk of dry eyes and discomfort.
When the eyes become dry, they can become painful and swollen. However, this phenomenon can easily be prevented by regularly using lubricating eye drops.