Does Using a Mobile Phone Damage Your Eyes?
Looking at a phone up close for long periods can cause eye strain and dryness; in children, heavy use has been linked to earlier onset and faster progression of myopia. Taking breaks and limiting screen time are recommended.
Phones and eye strain
Focusing on a small screen up close for a long time can cause eye ache, fatigue and tension in the focusing muscles. We blink less when looking at a bright screen, which increases dryness and can reduce contact lens comfort.
Do smartphones make myopia worse?
Myopia was once thought to stop at around 18. Today it is reported to progress into the 20s and 30s, and it has been suggested that this may be linked to heavy screen use.
Long phone use, especially in early childhood, has been linked to earlier onset and faster progression of myopia.
Protecting your eyes
- Take breaks and look into the distance.
- Where possible, use larger screens such as a tablet or computer.
- Limit children's screen time and teach them to use phones more wisely.
Frequently asked questions
Can a mobile phone cause myopia?
Long use, especially in children, has been linked to earlier onset and faster progression of myopia.
Do phones affect contact lens wearers?
They can increase dryness and reduce lens comfort.
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This page is for general information only and does not replace a medical consultation. Anatomy and treatment plans differ from patient to patient.