Momin Hera Taskeen, B. Optom Intern
MGM School of Biomedical Sciences, Aurangabad, India
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), or digital eye strain, is a common complaint in modern ophthalmic practice. (1) Traditionally associated with dryness, blurred vision, and eye fatigue, CVS is now increasingly recognised as a multifactorial condition involving neurovascular and lifestyle factors. Patients often report reduced concentration, sleep disturbances, and cognitive fatigue, which are not always explained by clinical findings. Digital wellness medicine offers a preventive and personalised approach to CVS by integrating technology, behavioural strategies, and interdisciplinary care. With increasing screen use, CVS has become highly prevalent. While earlier considered a minor ocular condition, it is now understood to involve broader visual and neurological effects, suggesting a shift toward a digital fatigue syndrome.
CVS results from multiple factors, including reduced blink rate, prolonged accommodation, and poor ergonomics. Symptoms now extend beyond ocular discomfort to include mental fatigue and sleep disruption.
Digital wellness medicine introduces a more advanced approach by: (3)
- Classifying patients into specific CVS phenotypes
- Using objective tools like blink and fatigue monitoring
- Integrating sleep hygiene and lifestyle modifications
- Emerging innovations such as AI-based break systems, wearable strain sensors, and ergonomic prescriptions may further enhance management by addressing the root cause of digital strain.
Future Innovations in CVS Care
- AI-driven break reminder systems
- Wearable digital strain sensors
- Workplace vision wellness programs
- Occupational accommodative support lenses
- Digital ergonomics prescriptions (1)
These wearable devices utilising Near-Eye Tracking (NET) technologies, such as Video Oculography (VOG) and Electrooculography (EOG), provide real-time insights into eye movements and behaviours. (2)
For instance, smart glasses equipped with NET sensors can monitor blink rates and eye strain, offering timely reminders to blink or take breaks, thereby reducing digital eye strain and promoting healthier screen time habits, while also enhancing personal health management through continuous, non-intrusive monitoring and encouraging ergonomic practices by alerting users to adjust posture or take necessary breaks. (2)
References
- Kahal, F., Al Darra, A., & Torbey, A. (2025). Computer vision syndrome: a comprehensive literature review. Future Science OA, 11(1).
- Zhu, L., Chen, J., Yang, H., Zhou, X., Gao, Q., Loureiro, R., … & Zhao, H. (2024). Wearable near-eye tracking technologies for health: a review. Bioengineering, 11(7), 738.
- Wangsan, K., Upaphong, P., Assavanopakun, P., Sapbamrer, R., Sirikul, W., Kitro, A., … & Khamphichai, T. (2022). Self-reported computer vision syndrome among Thai university students in virtual classrooms during the COVID-19 pandemic: prevalence and associated factors. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(7), 3996.