After Brain Rot, Reels now emerges as major threat for eyes: Heath experts

Following concerns about the impact of short-form videos on mental health, doctors are now raising alarms about a new and growing crisis—’Reel-Induced Eye Damage.’ Excessive screen time, particularly binge-watching reels on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, is leading to a spike in eye disorders across all age groups, especially among children and young adults. These concerns were highlighted by leading ophthalmologists during the ongoing Joint Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) and the All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS) at the Yashobhoomi – India International Convention & Expo Centre, Dwarka, New Delhi.

Dr. Lalit Verma, Congress President of the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology, has issued a strong warning against the ‘silent epidemic of digital eye strain’ caused by excessive screen exposure. “We are witnessing a sharp increase in cases of dry eye syndrome, myopia progression, eye strain, and even early-onset squinting, especially in children who spend hours watching reels,” he stated. He shared the case of a student who recently visited the clinic complaining of persistent eye irritation and blurry vision. “After examination, we found that his eyes were not producing enough tears due to prolonged screen time at home watching reels. He was immediately put on eye drops and advised to follow the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away.”

Dr. Harbansh Lal, Chairman of the Organizing Committee and Past President of the All India Ophthalmological Society, explained the severity of the issue. “Short, engaging reels are designed to capture and hold attention for long periods. However, this constant screen fixation reduces blink rates by 50%, leading to dry eye syndrome and accommodation spasms (difficulty in shifting focus between near and distant objects). Experts warn that if this habit continues unchecked, it could result in long-term vision problems and even permanent eye strain.”

Dr. Harbansh Lal further added, “Children who are glued to reels for hours daily are at risk of developing early myopia, which is progressing faster than ever before. Adults, too, are experiencing frequent headaches, migraines, and sleep disorders caused by blue light exposure. Studies indicate that by 2050, more than 50% of the world’s population will be myopic, making it the most common cause of irreversible blindness. Increased screen time has already led to fluctuations in lens prescription until the age of 30, whereas earlier, such fluctuations typically ceased by 21.”

Studies show that an increasing number of people, especially students and working professionals, are struggling with digital eye strain, squinting, and worsening eyesight due to prolonged exposure to high-speed, visually stimulating content. Doctors have also noted a troubling trend of social isolation, mental fatigue, and cognitive overload associated with constant reel consumption.

Dr. Samar Basak, President of AIOS, highlighted the social and psychological toll of excessive screen time: “We are seeing a concerning pattern where people are so absorbed in reels that they neglect real-world interactions, leading to strained family relationships and reduced focus on education and work.”

Dr. Partha Biswas, Senior Ophthalmologist and Incoming President of AIOS, said, “The combination of artificial lighting, rapid visual changes, and prolonged near-focus activity is overstimulating the eyes, leading to a phenomenon we call ‘Reel Vision Syndrome.’ It’s time we take this seriously before it turns into a full-blown public health crisis.”

To combat the adverse effects of excessive reel-watching, ophthalmologists recommend the following:

Following the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.

Increasing blink rate: Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently while watching screens.

Reducing screen time: Limit screen exposure and prioritize eye health.

Taking digital detoxes: Regular screen breaks can help reduce dependency and prevent long-term damage.

With eye disorders on the rise due to unregulated reel consumption, health experts urge parents, educators, and social media users to take immediate preventive measures. “Reels may be short, but their impact on eye health can last a lifetime,” warns Dr. Lal. “It’s time we take control before we lose sight—literally.”

The press conference was led by Dr. Lalit Verma, Congress President of the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology; Dr. Harbansh Lal, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, APAO; Dr. Samar Basak, President, AIOS; Dr. Partha Biswas, Incoming President, AIOS; Dr. J S Tityal, Vice President, AIOS; Dr. Santosh Honawar, Secretary, AIOS; Dr. Manoj C Mathur, Treasurer, AIOS; and Dr. Namrata Sharma, Chairman, Scientific Committee, AIOS.