If you have glaucoma, you may wonder whether spending hours on a computer or smartphone can raise your eye pressure or make your condition worse.

The reassuring answer is that screen time is not currently considered a proven risk factor for glaucoma. Research has also not found clear evidence that blue light from digital screens damages the eyes.

Screens can, however, cause dry eyes, blurry vision, headaches, and other symptoms. Based on information from the Glaucoma Research Foundation, here is what you should know.*

Does Screen Time Worsen Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, which carries visual information from your eye to your brain. It is often connected to increased pressure inside the eye, also called intraocular pressure or IOP.

Some studies have found that close-up smartphone use may temporarily increase eye pressure, including in people with glaucoma. However, researchers have not established that these short-term changes cause glaucoma or lead to permanent disease progression. 

There is also no conclusive evidence that the amount of blue light produced by digital screens causes permanent eye damage.

More research is needed, but having glaucoma generally does not mean you must avoid screens. Your glaucoma treatment and regular eye exams remain much more important to protecting your vision.

Why Can Screens Make Your Eyes Feel Worse?

Looking at a screen for a long time can cause computer vision syndrome, also called digital eye strain.

Symptoms may include:

• Dry or irritated eyes
• Blurry vision
• Headaches
• Tired or aching eyes
• Neck and shoulder discomfort

These problems can happen because you blink less while looking at a screen. Glare, poor lighting, small text, an uncomfortable sitting position, and focusing at a close distance for too long can also contribute.

Digital eye strain may be uncomfortable, but it does not necessarily mean that your eye pressure is rising or that your glaucoma is getting worse.

Do not assume that every new symptom is caused by your screen, though. Contact your eye doctor if you experience persistent blurry vision, significant eye pain, sudden vision changes, severe headaches, halos around lights, or nausea.

How to Make Screen Use More Comfortable

You probably do not need to give up your devices. Instead, try these simple changes:

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
• Blink more often. Regular blinking helps keep the surface of your eyes moist.
• Adjust your screen. Increase the text size and reduce glare. Match the screen brightness to the room.
• Improve your position. Keep the screen at a comfortable distance and use a supportive sitting position.
• Ask about dry-eye relief. Talk with your eye doctor before adding lubricating drops or other eye products, especially if you use glaucoma medication.
• Continue your glaucoma care. Use your medication as prescribed and keep your eye-pressure, imaging, and visual field appointments.

Taking regular breaks and adjusting your screen setup can improve comfort. Most importantly, continue following your glaucoma treatment plan and attending regular eye exams—the best ways to monitor your condition and protect your vision.

*Glaucoma Research Foundation (January 5, 2024). “Glaucoma in the Digital Age: How Screen Time Affects Your Eyes.” glaucoma.org 

The information provided by The Glaucoma Community is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always talk with your healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment or care. The Glaucoma Community does not endorse specific treatments, providers, or products.