The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast 1KHO 684: Everything You Need to Know About the Blink Crisis and Dry Eye Disease, Dr. Pam Theriot
Jan 19, 2026
Dr. Pam Theriot, an optometrist and dry-eye specialist, dives into the hidden dangers of screen time on our eye health. She explains how screens reduce blinking rates and contribute to dry eye disease, even in the young. Pam shares a simple blink interval self-test and promotes the 20-20-20 rule for screen users. She also offers practical advice for workstation setups and tips for gamers on eye preparation. With insights on the importance of outdoor eye health, Pam emphasizes caring for our eyes just like we do our teeth.
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Screen Stare Reduces Blinking And Tears
- Staring at screens cuts blink rate from ~21 to ~7 blinks per minute, causing faster tear evaporation.
- Reduced blinking lets eyelid oil solidify, worsening dry eye over time.
Do The 20-20-20 With Intentional Blinks
- Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds and then do 3–4 intentional squeezes/blinks.
- Those deliberate blinks squeeze oil from glands and refresh your tear film.
Add A Desk Humidifier
- Use a small desktop humidifier and avoid vents or fans blowing on your face to reduce evaporation.
- More ambient moisture helps keep the tear film from drying out.