A cross-sectional study of the prevalence of computer vision syndrome and dry eye in computer operators

Abstract

Aim: To study the prevalence of computer vision syndrome (CVS) and dry eyes in computer operators. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at teaching institute. Hundred participants were included in our study according to the inclusion criteria. Questionnaire was prepared to ask symptoms of CVS. Ocular surface disease index (OSDI), refraction, Schirmer's test 1, and tear film break-up time (TBUT) were performed. Data were collected and analyzed by SPSS software. Results: The prevalence of CVS was 74%. In the study population, 61 were male and 39 were female. Mean age was 29.58 years (7.85). Most of the participants were of age 21–30 years. Depending on the working hours, most of the participants (37.84%) were working for 4–8 h. About 37.84% of participants were working for 4–8 h. The most common eye complaint was eye strain. According to the OSDI score, mild dry eye was present in 23 individuals and moderate dry eye was present in 41 individuals. According to Schirmer's test 1, dry eye was present in 59% in the right eye and 58% in the left eye. According to TBUT, dry eye was present 59% in the right eye and 57% in the left eye. Dry eye was diagnosed in 59 (59.0%) individuals. Conclusion: The prevalence of CVS has increased due to the increased use of computer in our daily life. Its prolonged use causes dry eyes and inefficiency in their working, though most computer users are unaware of this fact. Hence, a lot of work has to be done to aware the community about the disease.

Keywords

• computer vision syndrome
• dry eye
• ocular surface disease index
• refraction
• schirmer's test 1
• tear film break-up time