Incorporate a quick blinking exercise to tackle dry eyes, expert says

Will blinking help prevent dry eyes, or is it an effective remedy?

For alleviating symptoms of dry eyes, complete blinks where the eyelids make full contact are recommended. (Source: Freepik)

In today’s digital age, where staring at our screens for extended periods has become normal, dry eye syndrome has become a common problem. Many individuals experience discomfort, irritation, and even vision impairment due to prolonged exposure to screens, air conditioning, or other environmental factors.

Content creator Allan Mandell suggests a simple solution: blinking your eyes for one minute. “When we spend long hours staring at our screens or in dry environments we tend to blink less, leading to dry, irritated eyes,” he notes.

Mandell adds that by consciously practicing blinking exercises you will open up the meibomian glands, the tiny oil-producing glands along the eyelids on the top and the bottom which are essential for lubricating our eyes. “And this simple act of blinking helps to spread the tears evenly across the surface of our eyes, preventing dryness and discomfort.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alan Mandell (@motivationaldoc)

He suggests incorporating a quick blinking exercise into your daily routine. “Close your eyes gently for a few seconds. Open them up, open them wide. Blink rapidly. Just start blinking, stimulating that tear production to keep your eyes well lubricated. I hope this helps make it a great day,” he says.

But, is this method effective?

Story continues below this ad

Physiological mechanisms of blinking for dry eyes

Navya C, senior consultant opthalmology at Athreya Super Speciality Hospital agrees with Mandell. “Blinking plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health by spreading tears evenly across the surface of the eye, which helps keep the eyes lubricated and removes irritants. Each blink facilitates the secretion of tears from the lacrimal glands, which contain moisture and essential proteins that maintain eye surface integrity and combat dryness.”

This regular lubrication is vital for preventing the evaporation of the eye’s tear film, a common issue in dry eye conditions.

While blinking exercises are beneficial, Navya C, senior consultant opthalmology at Athreya Super Speciality Hospital, asserts that relying solely on them may not be sufficient for individuals with severe or chronic dry eye conditions. (Source: Freepik)

Effective blinking techniques for dry eyes

For alleviating symptoms of dry eyes, she says, complete blinks where the eyelids make full contact are recommended. These ensure maximum tear spread and eye surface hydration.

A specific pattern known as ‘voluntary blinking exercises,’ where one intentionally blinks fully every few seconds, can be beneficial. This practice is particularly important in environments that promote tear evaporation like air-conditioned rooms or while using digital devices.

Story continues below this ad

ALSO READ | Golden rules for healthy eyes and sharp sight

Risks and drawbacks of relying solely on blinking exercises

While blinking exercises are beneficial, Navya asserts that relying solely on them may not be sufficient for individuals with severe or chronic dry eye conditions.

“These conditions often require a multifaceted approach including artificial tears, prescription eye drops, or punctal plugs. Over-reliance on blinking alone without addressing underlying causes or more severe symptoms can lead to inadequate treatment, potentially exacerbating the condition.”

📣 For more lifestyle news, click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and also follow us on Instagram