New Delhi: A new study has highlighted the harmful effects of excessive smartphone use, revealing that even one hour of scrolling social media reels can trigger significant eye fatigue compared to reading e-books or watching videos. The findings, published in the Journal of Eye Movement Research by scientists from SRM Institute of Science and Technology, point out that the type of digital content matters as much as screen time.
Researchers observed that social media reels create greater fluctuations in pupil size and reduce blink rate due to rapid brightness and content variations. This continuous strain on the eyes contributes to visual fatigue and may lead to headaches, sleep disorders, and mental exhaustion.
Using a low-cost portable device, the team recorded parameters such as blink rate, pupil diameter, and inter-blink intervals among young adults during different smartphone activities. The results showed that reels produced the most discomfort, with 60% of participants experiencing mild to severe symptoms, including eye strain, neck stiffness, and hand fatigue.
Additionally, over 80% reported anxiety, disturbed sleep, or mental tiredness after prolonged use. Experts recommend frequent breaks, use of blue light filters, and dark mode to ease digital strain.
