How Myopia and Dry Eye Are Related: Can One Condition Make the Other Worse?

Myopia (nearsightedness) and dry eye disease are two of the most common vision concerns people face today. While they may seem unrelated at first, research shows that these conditions can influence each other in ways that affect both vision and comfort. Understanding the connection between myopia and dry eye can help you take better care of your eyes and prevent worsening symptoms over time.

Understanding Myopia and Dry Eye

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too steep, causing distant objects to appear blurry. It’s on the rise, especially in children and teens who spend significant time on screens or doing close-up work.
 

Dry eye disease happens when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This leads to symptoms like burning, redness, irritation, and blurred vision.
 

Though these conditions have different root causes, they often overlap in modern lifestyles, and that overlap can make each one more troublesome.

How Myopia Can Influence Dry Eye

Myopia often requires glasses or contact lenses. For those who wear contact lenses daily, the risk of developing or worsening dry eye increases. Contacts can reduce the natural tear film and cause more evaporation, leading to dryness and irritation. Additionally, people with myopia may spend more time on digital devices, which decreases blink rate. Fewer blinks mean the eyes don’t get refreshed with tears as often, increasing dryness.

Some studies also suggest that ocular surface stress from dryness may worsen eye fatigue, leading to more strain during near work. This could potentially accelerate myopia progression in children and teens.

Shared Risk Factors

Both myopia and dry eye share common risk factors, including:
 

• Excessive screen time

• Prolonged near work (reading, studying, phone use)

• Reduced outdoor activity

• Environmental factors such as air conditioning or low humidity

Addressing these lifestyle habits can reduce the severity of both conditions.

Managing Both Conditions Together

Fortunately, proactive care can help manage both myopia and dry eye effectively:
 

• Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams to monitor vision changes and eye health.

• Take screen breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

• Encourage outdoor time for children to slow myopia progression.

• Treat dry eye with artificial tears, prescription drops, or in-office treatments recommended by your optometrist.

• Discuss myopia control options that are compatible with your child’s eye comfort and tear health.

Take the Next Step for Healthier Eyes

Myopia and dry eye may seem like separate issues, but they are often interconnected. Dry eye can make myopia more difficult to manage, and myopia-related habits can worsen dryness. By taking a comprehensive approach to eye care, you can protect your vision, relieve discomfort, and maintain long-term eye health.

If you are struggling with nearsightedness, dry eye symptoms, or both, Texas State Optical Mansfield is here to help. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam and get personalized care to keep your vision clear and comfortable. Visit our office in Mansfield, Texas, or call (682) 201-2883 today.