Identification of a blink frequency threshold for maintaining tear film stability in young adults with dry eye symptoms
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: To determine the critical blink frequency threshold for maintaining tear film stability in young participants with dry eye symptoms. In this two-phase study, 45 young participants (aged 19-28 years) with dry eye symptoms (Ocular Surface Disease Index, OSDI ≥ 13) underwent spontaneous blink measurements (Phase 1) and controlled blink experiments (Phase 2: spontaneous, 10 blinks/min, and 20 blinks/min). Tear meniscus height (TMH), non-invasive tear break-up time (BUT), bulbar redness (BR), and Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SANDE) scores were obtained and analyzed. Spontaneous blink frequency (27.75 ± 14.43 blinks/min) positively correlated with TMH (r = 0.48, p < 0.01). Reducing blink frequency to 10 blinks/min significantly worsened TMH (p = 0.0002), BUT (p < 0.0001), BR (p < 0.0001), and SANDE scores (p < 0.0001) compared to spontaneous blinking. No differences were found between spontaneous blinking and controlled 20 blinks/min. A blink frequency threshold of ≥ 20 blinks/min is critical for stabilizing tear film in young participants with dry eye symptoms. Interventions targeting blink frequency may mitigate symptoms exacerbated by digital device use.
Source: Scientific Reports
Authors: Yawei Chai, Mingrui Cheng, Xinhua Liu, Yiteng Lu, Xingyu Zhu, Yuqing Wu, Qihua Le, Jiaxu Hong
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,690
Funders: Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai, National Natural Science Foundation of China, Fudan University, Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, National Key Research and Development Program of China, National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars
OpenAlex ID: W4416740734