In our increasingly digital world, the time we spend staring at screens has never been higher. Electronics are now an essential part of our daily lives, whether for work, education, or leisure. Despite the convenience and benefits they provide, there is a downside to this ease of use: a growing number of individuals are experiencing Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).
What is Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer Vision Syndrome, also known as digital eye strain, is a condition that results from prolonged exposure to digital screens like computers, tablets, e-readers and cell phones. Symptoms include eye discomfort, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck and shoulder pain. They can be exacerbated by inadequate lighting conditions, such as glare, strong blue-spectrum backlights, and bright overhead lighting, as well as airflow past the eyes, such as from ceiling vents and direct fans. The primary cause of these symptoms is the strain that results from focusing on a digital screen for extended periods, which is not how our eyes are supposed to function.
Our eyes must continuously focus and refocus when using digital devices since the images change. The glare from screens, lack of contrast between the text and background, and the need to blink less frequently—which can cause dry eyes—cause additional complications. These aspects affect comfort and productivity by contributing to the development of CVS with time. In most cases, the visual demands of tasks outweigh an individual’s ability to comfortably complete them, resulting in symptoms of CVS. According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), people who use digital screens for two or more continuous hours a day are most at risk of developing CVS.
The Impact of CVS
The impact of Computer Vision Syndrome is multifaceted. It can cause long-term (chronic) physical pain that interferes with an individual’s ability to focus and carry out daily chores. For example, an office worker would suffer from headaches and blurred vision from spending eight hours a day in front of a computer. Consequently, this would lower their productivity and work quality. Many visual symptoms people experience are temporary and will subside after they stop using digital screens. However, some individuals may experience decreased visual abilities, such as blurred distance vision, even after discontinuing screen use. If the underlying cause is not addressed, the symptoms may persist and could even worsen with continued use of digital devices.
Psychologically, the discomfort resulting from CVS can also lead to increased stress and exhaustion. It can cause a decline in overall job satisfaction due to decreased motivation to complete tasks. In severe cases, the symptoms may persist even after avoiding digital devices, potentially leading to a more serious chronic condition that requires treatment.
Moreover, the degree of visual impairment and the duration of time spent staring at a digital screen are two factors that frequently influence the severity of visual symptoms. Uncorrected vision issues such as astigmatism and farsightedness, poor eye coordination or
focusing abilities, and age-related changes such as presbyopia, can all lead to the development of visual symptoms when using digital screens. Some people may discover that their prescribed glasses or contact lenses are unsuitable for the viewing distances of their computer screen. As a result, they may lean closer to the screen or tilt their heads at awkward angles to see more clearly, leading to poor posture and potentially causing muscle spasms or pain in the neck, shoulders, or back.
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Just like adults, children who use digital screens for prolonged periods can also develop Computer Vision Syndrome. Staring at a digital screen places stress on the eyes, especially for children whose eyes and visual systems are still developing. As a result, children may be at a higher risk of developing CVS compared to adults. Additionally, computer-generated graphics are more difficult to focus on than printed images, making screen use more straining on the eyes than reading a book or magazine.
Physicians have additional concerns about the long-term consequences of exposure to blue light from electronic devices. High-energy visible (HEV) light, commonly referred to as blue light, can harm children’s retinas because it penetrates the eye more deeply than ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
According to the American Optometric Association, children are especially prone to computer-related vision problems due to their limited self-awareness. They might spend hours on a computer with minimal breaks which can ultimately result in focusing difficulties and eyestrain. Children often assume their vision is normal, even if it is impaired or gradually worsening, so they may not realize they are experiencing vision problems. Moreover, it is important to highlight that since computer workstations are generally designed for adults, children may sit too close to the screen or adopt improper postures, further contributing to eyestrain as well as neck, shoulder, and back pain. Children may also develop habits such as slouching; for example, a child who slouches while using a tablet may start complaining of neck or back pain, in addition to their visual symptoms.
The Status CVS in the Middle East
In the Middle East, Computer Vision Syndrome is becoming increasingly prevalent due to rising screen time across all age groups. The rapid adoption of technology in business, education, and entertainment has led to a significant increase in the amount of time people spend in front of screens. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, screen time surged dramatically due to the transition to remote work and distance learning. Consequently, there has been a noticeable rise in CVS cases among both adults and children.
Several studies conducted in Jeddah, Riyadh, Najran, and Qassim have revealed the prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome and its related risk factors in Saudi Arabia. These studies showed a relatively high prevalence of CVS, with rates reaching up to 95% among different population groups, including undergraduate medical students in Jeddah. Furthermore, headaches, a significant symptom of CVS, were reported by 68% of health sciences students at King Saud Bin Abdul-Aziz University. In Riyadh, around 82.2% of university students reported experiencing neck and shoulder pain. Blurred vision was reported by 62% of computer users in Najran, and 72% of college students at Qassim University presented with acute CVS symptoms. On the other hand, a study conducted on school-age children in Jazan estimated the prevalence of CVS to be low at 35.4%.
In Oman, more than two-thirds of the students reported blurred vision (34.2%) and eye fatigue (37.5%). A wide study conducted in Sohag, Minia, Alexandria, Cairo, and Ismailia revealed the prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome among university students was 56% following an objective ophthalmic examination, while the questionnaire revealed that 84.8% had complaints that might be related to CVS. Similarly, another study conducted in Cairo reported that 75% of students suffered from CVS, with headaches (81.5%) and eye pain (63.8%) being the most frequent symptoms. In Sudan, the prevalence was 94%, and 72.4% of the students reported experiencing at least three symptoms.
Moreover, the prevalence of CVS among students in Jordan was reported to be 94.5%, with tearing being the most common symptom (59%). Studies conducted in Kerbala and Erbil recorded a high prevalence of CVS in Iraq, reaching 91.6% and 89.65%, respectively. In Iran, the prevalence was 48.7% and the most frequent symptoms were eye redness (62.3%) and burning (56.5%). In Libya, 57.5% of students reported experiencing neck pain, 52.5% of Syrian students reported mild burning in their eyes, and 67.8% of Lebanese students reported blurred vision.
The Middle East is experiencing a rise in Computer Vision Syndrome, reflecting a global trend driven by increased screen time across all age groups. Research from various countries in the region underscores the significant adverse effects of prolonged screen use on eye health and overall well-being, particularly among students. As technology becomes an ever-present part of daily life, addressing the risks associated with extended screen use is increasingly crucial.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing Computer Vision Syndrome involves a combination of behavioral changes, environmental adjustments, and regular eye care. The following strategies can help reduce the risk of CVS:
- The 20-20-20 Rule: One of the most effective practices to prevent CVS is to follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain by allowing the eyes to relax and refocus.
- Optimize Workspaces: Ensuring that your workspace is ergonomically designed can make a significant difference. Position the computer screen 15 to 20 degrees below eye level (about 4 or 5 inches) as measured from the centre of the screen and 20 to 28 inches from the eyes. Adjust the lighting to reduce glare, and use a glare reduction filter, if necessary. Moreover, keeping screens clean from dust and fingerprints helps reduce glare and improve clarity.
- Regular Eye Exams: It is essential to have routine eye checkups to identify and address early onset of any vision problems to prevent complications or deterioration of eyesight. Additionally, glasses or contact lenses should be up-to-date and appropriate for computer use.
- Use Artificial Tears: For those who experience dry eyes, using artificial tears can help keep the eyes lubricated and comfortable during prolonged screen time. Increasing the room’s humidity can also help prevent eye dryness.
- Take Breaks and Blink Frequently: Encourage regular breaks from screen time to reduce strain. Frequent blinking helps keep the eyes lubricated, maintaining moisture on the outer surface of the eyes, especially in air-conditioned environments common in the Middle East.
Application Examples
Example 1:
Office Worker: Sarah, a marketing manager in Dubai, spends about 9 hours a day working on her laptop, and some extra time on her smartphone. Over the past few months, she’s been experiencing frequent headaches, blurred vision, and neck pain, especially towards the end of the workday.
Impact: Sarah’s productivity has decreased because the discomfort makes it hard to focus on her tasks. She also feels mentally exhausted by the end of the day, reducing her overall job quality and satisfaction.
Prevention: By adopting the 20-20-20 rule, optimizing her workspace with an adjustable chair and proper screen positioning, and using artificial tears to combat dry eyes, Sarah notices a significant reduction in her symptoms within a few weeks.
Example 2:
Gaming- Ahmed, a 15-year-old boy, enjoys playing video games on his computer for several hours every day. He starts to notice that his eyes feel dry and tired and also has occasional headaches after long gaming sessions.
Impact: Ahmed’s enjoyment of gaming declines as the discomfort becomes more frequent. He also starts having trouble sleeping, which he later realizes is linked to his prolonged screen use late at night.
Prevention: Ahmed’s parents encourage him to follow the 20-20-20 rule while gaming and take longer breaks. They also set limits on screen time, especially before bed, to reduce the strain on his eyes and improve his sleep quality and duration. These adjustments have helped Ahmed focus on outdoor activities and exercise, ensuring he maintains a healthy lifestyle.
