Digital Eye Strain- A Comprehensive Review.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology and Public Health
• Digital Health and Ergonomics

Background:

• Digital eye strain (DES) presents with visual and non-visual symptoms from prolonged device use.
• Pre-pandemic prevalence varied (5-65%); COVID-19 lockdowns exacerbated symptoms and affected children significantly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathophysiology, risk factors, and evolving management of digital eye strain.
• To analyze the changing prevalence patterns of DES post-COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on digital eye strain prevalence, symptoms, and management strategies.
• Analysis of pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic trends in digital eye strain.

Main Results:

• COVID-19 lockdowns led to increased DES prevalence (50-60% in children) and new issues like esotropia and myopia progression.
• Management includes ergonomic adjustments (screen time, blinking, breaks) and technological solutions.

Conclusions:

• A paradigm shift towards understanding DES etiology is needed for customized solutions.
• Further research should focus on screen optimization, advanced lens technologies, and inbuilt filters for visual comfort.