Digital Eye Health in A Digital World

Kristi Sharma, B.Optom

Intern Optometrist, Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya, Guwahati, Assam

 

Overview

The last decade saw an abrupt transition from the conventional lifestyle to a digital world. The way people embraced the technological surge and made innovations a part of their lives was something never really seen before. But they say with great powers, comes great responsibilities. All these advancements brought with them challenges to the overall health of human beings that needs to be responsibly looked after. ⁽¹⁾

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) results due to prolonged use of computers, smartphones, tablets, etc. causing various eye-related complaints by the user. This happens when the eyes’ ability to perform the near task becomes less than the stress it is exposed to.

 

Figure-1: Aetiology and Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome ⁽²⁾

 

Symptoms mainly occur in people who work for two or more hours continuously in front of digital screens. CVS can happen in any age group and if overlooked, the symptoms may deteriorate over time. The examination procedure of CVS includes-

Assessment of Ergonomics like working distance, posture, the position of desk and seat, lightning conditions, font size, and contrast.

Examination of refractive error and eye health like ocular motility, accommodation, pupil size, and tear film integrity (TBUT).

 

Correction of refractive error myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, etc.	Glasses for computer use like Blue-cut lenses and lenses with tints and coatings like UV and Anti-Reflection coatings.	Progressive Addition Lenses (PAL) for intermediate distance use.
Prisms for associated binocular problems.	Vision Therapy for accommodative and vergence problems.	Following the 20-20-20 rule. It implies looking at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds after every 20 minutes of working.
Treatment of dry eyes with artificial tears.	Adjusting the workplace settings adequately like maintaining proper brightness and contrast and reducing glare.	Using screen glare filter to avoid the unwanted glare from the screen.

Table-1: First-line management of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)⁽²⁾

 

Conclusion

Computer Vision Syndrome is very common among people in today’s world. Although the use of digital devices cannot be stopped the health consequences can be prevented. Following all precautionary measures is of utmost importance while working for long hours in front of the computers. CVS should never be overlooked, and medical advice should be sought immediately if the symptoms start troubling the patient.

 

References:

1. Binocular and Accommodative Problems Associated with Computer Use: Section IV/ Advanced Diagnostic and Management Issues [Last accessed: 30^th Oct 22:30 AEDT]
2. Computer Vision Syndrome: American Optometric Association [Last accessed: 30^th Oct 22:30 AEDT]