A review of digital eye strain: binocular vision anomalies, ocular surface changes, and the need for objective assessment

Barata, Maria João; Aguiar, Pedro; Grzybowski, Andrzej; Moreira-Rosário, André; Lança, Carla

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.21/22323

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Authors

Barata, Maria João

Aguiar, Pedro

Grzybowski, Andrzej

Moreira-Rosário, André

Lança, Carla

Abstract(s)

Background: This study investigates the impact of digital device usage on the visual system, with a focus on binocular vision. It also highlights the importance of objective assessment in accurately diagnosing and guiding therapeutic approaches for Digital Eye Strain Syndrome (DESS). Methods: A comprehensive narrative review was conducted to synthesize existing evidence. The methodological quality of observational and case-control studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale, while randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were evaluated using the Cochrane risk-of-bias (RoB 2) tool. Results: Fifteen articles were included in this review, with a predominant focus on binocular vision anomalies, particularly accommodative and vergence dysfunctions, as well as ocular surface anomalies related to DESS. Clinical assessments relied primarily on symptom-based questionnaires, which represent a significant limitation. The included studies were largely observational, with a lack of longitudinal and RCTs. In contrast, research in dry eye disease has been more comprehensive, with multiple RCTs already conducted. Therefore, it is essential to develop validated objective metrics that support accurate clinical diagnosis and guide evidence-based interventions. Conclusions: It remains unclear whether changes in binocular vision are a cause or consequence of DESS. However, prolonged screen time can exacerbate pre-existing binocular vision anomalies due to continuous strain on convergence and accommodation, leading to symptoms. Future research should prioritize prospective longitudinal studies and well-designed RCTs that integrate objective clinical measures to elucidate causal relationships and improve diagnostic and therapeutic frameworks.

Keywords

Ophthalmology Digital eye strain Accommodation Binocular vision Convergence Dry eye Ocular surface disease

URI

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.21/22323

Citation

Barata MJ, Aguiar P, Grzybowski A, Moreira-Rosário A, Lança C. A review of digital eye strain: binocular vision anomalies, ocular surface changes, and the need for objective assessment. J Eye Mov Res. 2025;18(5):39.