The Hidden Strain: Why More Children Are Suffering from Dry Eye
A Closer Look at the Rise of Dry Eye Disease in the Digital Generation
When we picture dry eye disease (DED), it’s usually adults who come to mind, those glued to spreadsheets, contact lens wearers, or people constantly behind a screen. But a growing body of evidence points to a different, and more unsettling, reality: children are increasingly showing signs of dry eye disease, and in greater numbers than previously imagined.
A major 2024 systematic review covering more than 48,000 children across 41 global studies revealed that nearly one in four children now meets diagnostic criteria for DED. Since the pandemic, those figures have escalated even further.
At Lancashire Eye Clinic, we’ve noticed this first-hand. Children walk through our doors with sore, itchy, or tired eyes, often brushed off as mere “screen fatigue.” But the issue runs deeper, and warrants greater urgency.
What the Research Shows
The review offered several compelling insights:
- How the condition is diagnosed matters. Based on self-reported symptoms like burning, stinging, or blurry vision, prevalence reached 34.6%. When clinical tests were used, the number dropped to 16.6%.
- The pandemic had a measurable impact. Prior to 2020, the global average sat at 18.7%. After extended lockdowns and remote learning, that figure rose to 44.1%, a sharp spike attributed to less outdoor play, increased device use, and environmental changes.
These figures suggest more than just an academic trend, they reveal a fundamental transformation in how modern childhood is affecting ocular health.
Why This Is Happening
Today’s children are growing up immersed in screens. From educational apps to gaming and endless streaming, digital engagement is no longer occasional, it’s constant. While technology brings undeniable advantages, it’s also reshaping their visual environment in subtle but significant ways.
Long hours in front of devices reduce blink rates, compromising tear film stability and leaving eyes exposed to dryness. Indoor air-conditioning, less natural light, and fewer outdoor breaks compound the problem.
And unlike adults, children often lack the vocabulary to describe what they’re experiencing. Instead of saying “my eyes feel dry,” they may complain of headaches, rub their eyes more often, or appear unusually tired.
What Parents Should Watch For
Here are some signs that may point to dry eye symptoms in children:
- Frequent blinking or eye rubbing
- Complaints of tired, sore, or stinging eyes
- Blurred vision or visual fatigue
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty focusing during reading or screen-based tasks
Left unaddressed, these symptoms can disrupt sleep, affect learning, and potentially alter long-term eye development.
How to Support Your Child’s Eye Health
Simple shifts in routine can offer meaningful relief:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Increase outdoor time: Natural daylight supports healthy blinking and eye growth.
- Set boundaries for screen use: Limit devices before bedtime and encourage tech-free moments during the day.
- Monitor symptoms: If your child regularly experiences discomfort, seek a professional consultation.
How We Can Help at Lancashire Eye Clinic
We provide consultant-led, child-friendly assessments tailored for young patients experiencing visual or ocular surface symptoms. Our evaluations include tear quality checks, screen-related strain assessments, and environmental risk reviews, helping parents move beyond guesswork to get personalised care and clarity.
The Takeaway
Dry eye disease is no longer confined to adulthood. A significant number of children are experiencing symptoms and the trend shows no signs of slowing. With early intervention, smart habits, and expert-led care, we can help preserve their vision and quality of life.
Concerned about your child’s eyes or screen use?
Book a consultation today. Let’s help protect what they see and how they see the world.
Book a consultation today. Let’s help protect what they see and how they see the world.
Reference:
Meta-analysis: Prevalence of Dry Eye Disease Among Children, published in Children (Basel), 2024. PMC11840909
Meta-analysis: Prevalence of Dry Eye Disease Among Children, published in Children (Basel), 2024. PMC11840909
