The rise of digital technologies in every area of life, from leisure to work, has significantly increased screen exposure time. This change in visual habits has an impact on eye health. According to the Head of Ophthalmology at Quirónsalud Vitoria, scientific evidence confirms that “spending too much time in front of digital devices increases the likelihood of experiencing symptoms such as itching, burning, gritty or foreign body sensation, eye fatigue, redness, difficulty opening the eyes upon waking and light sensitivity.” He explains that dry eye syndrome is significantly aggravated by prolonged screen exposure (1).
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome is one of the most common reasons for ophthalmology consultations, accounting for around 30% of visits. Although many people consider it a minor issue, dry eye is a chronic condition that can significantly affect vision and overall well-being. Its prevalence increases every year and currently millions of people in Spain suffer from its symptoms (2).
It is caused either by insufficient tear production (aqueous deficiency) or excessive tear evaporation. Evaporative dry eye may occur due to external causes such as dry environments, cold weather and wind. It can damage the ocular surface and cause discomfort such as the sensation of having a foreign body or sand in the eye, stinging, discomfort when blinking, redness, itching, burning, tearing and eyelid inflammation. In addition, winter weather conditions (cold, wind and dryness) may negatively affect the eyes (3).
The use of certain types of eye drops provides rapid relief from these unpleasant ocular symptoms.
New Launch: Belcils MED Intensive
Laboratorios Viñas has just launched a new product within its Belcils MED range: Belcils MED Intensive, ophthalmic drops that relieve symptoms of mild to moderate dry eye with irritation. They stabilize the tear film, lubricate and soothe the ocular surface.
Its formula contains Hyaluronic Acid (0.15%), which hydrates and stabilizes the tear film, and Dexpanthenol (2%), an active ingredient that promotes water retention and protects the ocular surface.
This eye drop solution offers several benefits:
- Intensive care and rapid relief from eye dryness and irritation.
- Fast relief of mild to moderate dry eye symptoms.
The application of these eye drops provides care and protection against:
• Dryness and mechanical irritation caused by external conditions such as wind, dry air, air conditioning, air pollution, dust, contact lens use, and diagnostic or surgical eye procedures.
• Eye strain and irritation caused by reduced blinking during prolonged periods of concentrated vision, such as when using digital screens, driving or performing precision work.
Directions for Use
Before first use, the bottle must be activated. Remove the pump cap, turn the bottle upside down and press the applicator several times until the first drop appears. Ergonomic and anti-contamination dispenser (1 click = 1 drop).
• Instill 1–2 drops into the eyes several times a day as needed.
• Blink several times to distribute the drop evenly over the ocular surface.
• Avoid contact between the dropper tip and the eye surface or any other surface.
This product is suitable for contact lens wearers. The expiry period after opening is 6 months. Suitable for prolonged use.
In addition, the range includes Belcils MED Moisturizing Ophthalmic Drops and Belcils MED Moisturizing Ophthalmic Drops Forte, both indicated for dry eyes.
Dry Eye: Risk Factors
Some of the risk factors for dry eye may include:
- Aging
- Hormonal changes in women (pregnancy, menopause)
- Lifestyle factors (prolonged screen use, contact lens wear, staying in air-conditioned environments)
- Environmental conditions (wind, dry air, dust, smoke, air pollution, artificial lighting)
- Health-related causes (eye surgery, use of certain medications and autoimmune diseases)
Sources
- (1) https://www.quironsalud.com/es/comunicacion/contenidos-salud/ojo-seco-sindrome-auge-digital
- (2) https://www.clinicamoreiras.com/ojo-seco-sintomas-causas-y-tratamiento-de-una-enfermedad-ocular-cada-vez-mas-frecuente/
- (3) Blog Cuidado Experto: https://vinas.es/blog/
- Laboratorios Viñas: www.vinas.es
