In today’s hyper-connected world, digital screens are a constant in our daily lives—from checking emails and scrolling through social media to working long hours in front of a computer. At Beach Cities Laser Vision, we regularly hear from patients concerned about whether all this screen time might be harming their eyes in the long term. One of the most common questions we’re asked is: Can digital screen use speed up cataract development?
As a leading vision correction center serving the South Bay and beyond, our team is deeply experienced in diagnosing and treating cataracts with advanced techniques like refractive lens exchange (RLE). We’re here to separate fact from fiction and guide you toward the healthiest possible vision—backed by clinical expertise, evidence-based recommendations, and your individual needs.
Let’s take a closer look at what we know so far.
What Are Cataracts, and How Do They Form?
Cataracts occur when the normally clear lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision, faded colors, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night. Most cataracts develop as part of the natural aging process, typically starting to affect vision in your 60s or 70s.
However, cataracts can also form earlier due to other factors—such as genetics, smoking, UV exposure, diabetes, and certain medications. The big question is whether digital screen use belongs on that list.
Does Blue Light from Screens Contribute to Cataracts?
Digital screens—like those on your phone, tablet, or computer—emit high-energy visible (HEV) blue light. Blue light has been shown to penetrate deep into the eye and may cause retinal damage under certain conditions, which is why it’s often discussed in relation to digital eye strain and long-term eye health.
But current scientific evidence does not conclusively link blue light exposure to the formation of cataracts. Unlike ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun—which has been shown to contribute to cataract formation over time—blue light from screens is significantly weaker in intensity.
That said, spending excessive time on screens can still affect your eye health in other ways, especially through digital eye strain or “computer vision syndrome.” While this doesn’t cause cataracts directly, it can worsen overall visual comfort, making early cataract symptoms more noticeable.
Could Screen Time Still Play a Role in Cataract Progression?
Here’s where things get a bit more nuanced. While screens aren’t a proven cause of cataracts, there’s emerging interest in the indirect ways prolonged screen use could affect eye aging:
- Reduced blink rate and dry eyes: Screen use leads to less blinking, which can dry out the eye surface. Chronic dryness may contribute to overall eye discomfort and inflammation, though there’s no evidence it accelerates cataract formation.
- Disrupted sleep patterns: Blue light exposure late in the evening can interfere with melatonin production and sleep quality. Poor sleep has been associated with a range of systemic issues, including oxidative stress, which may play a role in age-related eye conditions.
- Lifestyle overlap: People who spend more time on screens may also spend less time outdoors—missing out on the protective benefits of natural light exposure, exercise, and UV protection habits like wearing sunglasses.
So, while screens aren’t directly causing cataracts, their relationship to lifestyle factors that do impact eye aging shouldn’t be ignored.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Vision?
Even though digital screens may not be a major driver of cataracts, it’s still smart to adopt habits that support long-term eye health:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors: Protect your eyes from UV light, which is a known contributor to cataract formation.
- Use screen filters or blue light glasses at night if you find they help reduce strain.
- Keep up with annual eye exams: Especially if you’re over 40, these are critical for detecting early lens changes.
When Cataracts Begin to Affect Your Life, We’re Here
If you’re noticing changes in your vision—like glare at night, faded colors, or difficulty reading—cataracts may be forming. The good news is that modern cataract surgery and lens replacement options are more advanced and customizable than ever.
At Beach Cities Laser Vision, we specialize in refractive lens exchange (RLE), using state-of-the-art intraocular lenses to help patients reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses, even after cataracts. Our approach is always personalized, tech-forward, and focused on preserving your best possible vision.
Final Thoughts: Should You Worry About Your Screens?
In short: Digital screens are unlikely to directly cause or accelerate cataracts, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore how screen time affects your eyes. By managing digital eye strain, protecting against UV exposure, and staying on top of your eye health, you can set yourself up for a clearer, more comfortable future.
And if cataracts are already starting to interfere with your life, we’re here to help—backed by years of clinical expertise, advanced technology, and a team that puts your vision first.
Ready to protect your future vision? Schedule a cataract consultation at Beach Cities Laser Vision today and get expert guidance tailored to your eyes. Saturday appointments are available to accommodate our patients.
