Reduced blinking leaves the eye surface exposed and prone to dryness. It often occurs without the person noticing.
Typical Situations
Concentrated digital device use markedly lowers blink rate, contributing to digital eye strain and dry eye. Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, facial nerve palsy, and some medications can also decrease spontaneous blinking.
- Incomplete blink fails to spread tears evenly across the cornea
- People with proptosis or thyroid eye disease may struggle to close lids fully
- Sedating drugs and reduced consciousness impair blinking and corneal protection
- Contact lens wearers with poor blink may develop discomfort and surface damage
Consequences and Management
Chronic reduced blinking leads to dryness, irritation, and risk of exposure keratopathy. Management focuses on treating underlying disease, encouraging conscious blinking, and protecting the surface.
- Lubricants, moisture goggles, or taping may be needed in severe exposure
- Screen users benefit from regular breaks and blink reminders
- Surgical options can improve closure in facial palsy or thyroid eye disease
- Monitoring is essential in patients with neurological impairment
