Computer vision syndrome: a review of ocular causes and potential treatments

Abstract

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is the combination of eye and vision problems associated with the use of computers. In modern western society the use of computers for both vocational and avocational activities is almost universal. However, CVS may have a significant impact not only on visual comfort but also occupational productivity since between 64% and 90% of computer users experience visual symptoms which may include eyestrain, headaches, ocular discomfort, dry eye, diplopia and blurred vision either at near or when looking into the distance after prolonged computer use. This paper reviews the principal ocular causes for this condition, namely oculomotor anomalies and dry eye. Accommodation and vergence responses to electronic screens appear to be similar to those found when viewing printed materials, whereas the prevalence of dry eye symptoms is greater during computer operation. The latter is probably due to a decrease in blink rate and blink amplitude, as well as increased corneal exposure resulting from the monitor frequently being positioned in primary gaze. However, the efficacy of proposed treatments to reduce symptoms of CVS is unproven. A better understanding of the physiology underlying CVS is critical to allow more accurate diagnosis and treatment. This will enable practitioners to optimize visual comfort and efficiency during computer operation.

Decompensated esophoria and asthenopia correlated with electronic screens overuse in childhood: a case report

“…The correlation between asthenopia and digital devices abuse has been widely reported and classified in heterogeneous population into internal ocular symptoms (strain and ache), external ocular symptoms (dryness, irritation, burning), visual symptoms (blur, double vision) and musculoskeletal symptoms (neck and shoulder pain) [1][2].…”

“…Smartphone, in particular, has become the most used device that involving everyone attention during travelling, work or school activities, at home, to dinner table, restroom and even to bed before sleeping [1][2].…”

Virtual Reality Applications in Rehabilitation

“…Some subjective measuring methods of simulator sickness (e.g., SSQ) include eye fatigue and discomfort as part of the scales. The effects of using standard non-wearable displays have been relatively well-established as the computer vision syndrome [20]. Regarding HMD, previous studies have examined its effects on visual perception (e.g., flicker fusion frequency, distance estimation), subjective comfort (e.g., fatigue, comfort), and visual acuity [21].…”

The position of a standard optical computer mouse affects cardiorespiratory responses during the operation of a computer under time constraints

“…In both years, it was reported that the percentage of workers who feel stressed increased as their daily or consecutive work hours became longer. The increasing use of computers is believed to have caused computer-related disorders (CRDs), such as eye fatigue, stiff shoulders, upper extremity pain, lower back pain, and mental stress [3,4]. Factors that can contribute to these conditions include the setting of the computer screen, which affects working posture [5], operating the computer for extended periods [6][7][8], and tasks that require repetitive and monotonous motions [9][10][11][12].…”