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Published on: May 26, 2018
Blink rate, incomplete blinks and computer vision syndrome.
Joan K Portello1, Mark Rosenfield, Christina A Chu
1SUNY College of Optometry, New York, New York, USA.
Summary
Computer vision syndrome (CVS) symptoms correlate with incomplete blinks, not just reduced blink rate. Ensuring complete blinks may be more effective than simply increasing blink frequency for relief.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Ergonomics
Background:
- Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is prevalent and linked to dry eye.
- Reduced blink rates are common during computer use.
- The significance of blink completeness in CVS is under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between ocular/visual symptoms and blink rate/completeness during computer tasks.
- To determine if increasing blink rate reduces CVS symptoms.
Main Methods:
- 21 subjects performed a 15-minute computer reading task.
- Blink rate and amplitude were measured via video recording.
- Ocular symptoms were assessed post-task; a second session involved an audible cue to increase blinking.
Main Results:
- Mean blink rate was 11.6 blinks/min; mean incomplete blink percentage was 16.1%.
- Incomplete blinks positively correlated with symptom scores (p=0.002).
- Increasing blink rate did not significantly alter symptom scores.
Conclusions:
- CVS symptoms are linked to both reduced blink rate and incomplete blinks.
- Focusing on complete corneal coverage during blinking may alleviate symptoms.
- Simply instructing patients to blink more may not be effective.
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