Ahmed Khan, a 15-year-old student from Pakistan, had been diligently preparing for competitive exams. However, his dedicated academic pursuit soon transformed into a distressing ordeal as Ahmed started experiencing a constant, nagging sensation in his eyes. Despite attempts to alleviate the discomfort through rubbing and washing, the irritation intensified. Concerned by the unrelenting discomfort, Ahmed sought medical attention at a hospital. His examination revealed that his symptoms were attributable to extended exposure to digital screens. Ahmed admitted to frequently using his laptop and mobile phone for webinars and online training sessions, and occasionally for binge-watching TV shows. He was diagnosed with Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), accompanied by severe eye dryness and blocked tear ducts. The medical team at Thumbay University Hospital prescribed a regimen that included limiting screen time, adopting ergonomic practices, and using artificial tears to combat dryness.

Similarly, Bayan Gamal, a 32-year-old graphics designer, encountered similar challenges. Her extensive daily computer use led to severe eye strain, headaches, and a persistent burning sensation in her eyes. Given the demands of her job, reducing screen time seemed nearly impossible, exacerbating her CVS symptoms. Gamal's condition was further aggravated by improper screen positioning and insufficient breaks, resulting in increased visual discomfort, blurred vision, and frequent headaches. After consulting with an ophthalmologist, she was advised to adjust her screen to minimize glare, adhere to the 20-20-20 rule for breaks, and use lubricating eye drops to ease dryness.

According to doctors, the incidence of Computer Vision Syndrome, also known as Digital Eye Strain, is globally on the rise among both adults and children due to the escalating use of digital devices, posing significant health risks. Dr. Archana Sood, a specialist ophthalmologist and head of the department at RAK Hospital, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue. She noted that the widespread use of devices has severely affected eye health, intensifying CVS symptoms such as dryness, burning eyes, ocular pain, eye strain, light sensitivity, and headaches. Dr. Kapil Das, a specialist ophthalmologist at Thumbay University Hospital in Ajman, supported this view, stating that prolonged digital screen exposure often reduces blinking frequency, leading to dry, irritated, and itchy eyes. He also highlighted the impact of dim lighting and screen glare, incorrect screen placement, and the potential worsening of untreated visual issues like astigmatism or nearsightedness with continued use.

Experts report that individuals typically spend 8-9 hours daily on screens for work and entertainment. Dr. Sood observed an increase in myopia among children over the past few years, likely due to altered study patterns during the Covid-19 pandemic, which involved excessive use of mobile devices and tablets. She also noted cases of migraines, dizziness, and scrolling nausea triggered by increased digital device use, particularly phones. Doctors also expressed concern about the increased exposure to blue light from digital screens and devices. They explained that blue light, which scatters more easily than other visible light, can make focusing difficult and may cause visual discomfort or eye strain. Some studies have even linked it to potential retinal damage and disruptions in sleep cycles, especially when exposure occurs in the evening.

Experts advise individuals to practice ergonomics by positioning their screens 15-20 degrees below their direct line of sight, which significantly reduces eye exposure by over 50 percent compared to looking upward. Dr. Das emphasized the importance of using corrective eyeglasses for visual problems, taking regular breaks, and ensuring proper screen setup to alleviate CVS symptoms. He recommended positioning the screen 20-30 inches away and at eye level to reduce strain. To aid eye rest, the 20-20 rule suggests focusing on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. To minimize glare, use appropriate lighting and an anti-glare screen filter, and take frequent breaks to reduce eye strain and physical fatigue. Once diagnosed with CVS, individuals should undergo a comprehensive eye examination. Modern treatments may include various medications, such as preservative-free lubricating eye drops, anti-inflammatory eye drops, and biologic eye drops to manage inflammation.