A new study has revealed that just one hour of scrolling through short-form social media videos on smartphones can cause noticeable eye fatigue. The findings suggest that it’s not only the duration of screen time but also the type of content consumed that significantly affects eye health.
Researchers found that social media reels—due to their rapid visual changes and intense brightness fluctuations—induce more stress on the eyes than reading e-books or watching videos. These fluctuations lead to greater pupil dilation and reduced blink rates, both of which contribute to visual fatigue.
The study was conducted among young Indian adults using a portable, low-cost system designed to measure blink rate, inter-blink intervals, and pupil diameter during different types of smartphone use. After an hour of continuous use, 60% of participants reported symptoms like eyestrain, neck pain, and hand fatigue.
More concerning were the psychological impacts: 83% of participants experienced psychophysiological issues, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mental exhaustion. Researchers also noted that extended smartphone use—especially sessions exceeding 20 minutes without breaks—can lead to both physical and mental health concerns.
Some users reported taking measures to reduce digital discomfort. Around 40% said they used blue light filters, enabled dark mode, or adjusted screen settings to mitigate the effects of prolonged screen exposure.
Experts recommend regular screen breaks and mindful content consumption to protect both visual and mental well-being in the digital age.
