The Dangers of Reel Mania: Eye Health Risks for Indian Children
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Synopsis
Leading ophthalmologists in New Delhi have raised alarms about 'Reel-Induced Eye Damage,' citing a rise in eye disorders among children due to excessive social media reel consumption.
Key Takeaways
- Dry eye syndrome is increasing among children.
- Prolonged screen time is causing myopia progression.
- Engaging reels reduce blink rates significantly.
- Social isolation is a concerning side effect of excessive screen use.
- Adopting the 20-20-20 rule can help protect eye health.
New Delhi, April 1 (NationPress) Prominent ophthalmologists have issued a warning on Tuesday regarding a notable rise in cases of dry eye syndrome, myopia progression, eye strain, and even early-onset squinting among children spending excessive hours consuming reels on various social media platforms.
Following concerns raised about the effects of short-form videos on mental health, doctors are now alerting the public to a new, escalating issue — ‘Reel-Induced Eye Damage.’
Healthcare professionals reported that excessive screen time, particularly through binge-watching reels on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, has led to a rise in eye disorders across all age groups, notably among children and young adults, as discussed during a joint meeting of the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology and the All India Ophthalmological Society in the national capital.
“A recent case involved a student who came to us with ongoing eye irritation and blurry vision. Upon examination, we discovered that his eyes were not generating enough tears due to excessive screen time dedicated to watching reels,” mentioned Dr. Lalit Verma, President of the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology.
“He was promptly prescribed eye drops and advised to adhere to the 20-20-20 rule — taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to focus on an object 20 feet away,” Dr. Verma added.
Research indicates that a growing number of individuals, particularly students and working professionals, are facing digital eye strain, squinting, and deteriorating eyesight due to prolonged exposure to high-speed, visually captivating content.
Furthermore, doctors are observing a disturbing trend of social isolation, mental fatigue, and cognitive overload linked to constant reel consumption.
Dr. Harbansh Lal, Chairman of the organizing committee and former President of AIOS, elaborated on the gravity of the situation during the event.
“Engaging short reels are crafted to capture attention for extended durations. However, this incessant screen fixation reduces blink rates by 50%, leading to dry-eye syndrome and accommodation spasms (difficulty in shifting focus between near and distant objects),” he explained.
Experts caution that if these habits persist, it could lead to long-term vision issues and even permanent eye strain.
“Children engrossed in reels for hours daily are at risk of developing early myopia, which is advancing at an unprecedented rate. Adults, too, are experiencing frequent headaches, migraines, and sleep disturbances due to blue light exposure,” Dr. Lal stressed.
Research shows that a growing number of people, particularly students and working professionals, are grappling with digital eye strain, squinting, and declining eyesight due to prolonged exposure to high-speed, visually stimulating content. Additionally, doctors are noting a concerning trend of social isolation, mental fatigue, and cognitive overload associated with constant reel consumption.
Dr. Samar Basak, President of AIOS and a senior ophthalmologist, underscored the social and psychological impacts of excessive screen time.
“We are witnessing a troubling pattern where individuals are so engaged in reels that they forgo real-world interactions, resulting in strained family dynamics and diminished focus on education and work,” he noted.
Increased blink rates and taking digital detoxes are recommended strategies to mitigate dependency and avert long-term eye damage, experts advised.
