Natalie Oberer, an optometrist at the John A. Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah, said many patients experience dry eye symptoms without realising that insufficient blinking is often the underlying cause.

“A lot of people come in for dry eye symptoms that they don’t realize are related to a lack of blinking,” Oberer was quoted as saying on the University of Utah's website.

According to experts, excessive screen time is one of the primary contributors to the growing problem. Studies cited by the university found that people blink about 50 per cent less frequently when using phones, tablets or computers. Even when they do blink, their eyelids often fail to close completely.

Experts explained that blinking plays a crucial role in keeping the eyes healthy and lubricated.

“When we blink, teardrops cover the eye, and oil from special glands keeps the moisture from evaporating too quickly,” Oberer said. “When we blink less than we should, the glands can clog or even die, leading to long-term complications.”

The university noted that the body's natural eye-moisturising system follows a “use-it-or-lose-it” principle, meaning reduced blinking can gradually impair the glands responsible for maintaining eye moisture.

With people spending increasing amounts of time on digital devices, experts warn that cases of dry eye syndrome are becoming more common.

Common symptoms of dry eye syndrome

• Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
• A gritty feeling, often described as having sand in the eyes
• Excessive tearing
• Blurred vision
• Redness or inflammation
• Sensitivity to light
• Eye discharge

Other factors that can worsen dry eyes

• Not removing eye makeup before going to bed
• Certain skin conditions
• Dry or arid environments
• Ageing
• Allergies
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Outdated eyeglass prescriptions
• Eye spasms or tics
• Stress and anxiety