Assessing Retinal Function Alterations Due to Digital Device Use: A Study of Computer Vision Syndrome in Medical Students

Abstract

Digital devices, mainly smartphone with its time-consuming applications and 24/7 internet connection, are accused of the being the main cause of severe distraction and excessive disruptions with fragmentation of everyday life that adversely interrupts the adults and youth lifestyles, health, education and social or family relationships.  The medical students underwent objective ophthalmic examination to confirm or exclude CVS diagnosis based on Iqbal’s four major criteria for accurate CVS diagnosis. Screen-induced foveal dysfunction (SFD) has been recorded using the multifocal electroretinogram to prove the retinal function alterations due to excessive digital device use. Based on our outcomes, we have defined the term screen-induced foveal dysfunction (SFD) as “the multifocal electroretinogram reduced foveal responses below standard normal ranges that are mostly temporary, reversible and usually associated with reduced visual acuities and performances in computer vision syndrome positive-cases”. SFD is characterized by temporary impermanent reduced foveal responses that associates reduced visual acuities and performances in CVS positive-cases. Strict reduction or cessation of exposure to digital screens and/or electronic devices that contains light emitting diodes (LEDs) for 4 weeks results in spontaneous resolution of cone adaptation/saturation thus eventually the retina regains its normal foveal functions and responses with normal visual acuities and performances. Iqbal’s instructions are helpful in reducing the medical students’ screen-time to reverse the SFD thus improving the foveal responses in CVS positive-cases. It is recommended that the screen-time not exceed 3 hours daily to avoid the visual impacts and sequelae of the digital environment.