Screen Strain: The Prevalence of Digital Eye Strain and Dry Eye Symptoms in Ophthalmologists using Video Display Terminals

Abstract Background: The reliance on electronic medical records (EMR) through video display terminals in health care has raised concerns regarding the impact of prolonged screen exposure on the ocular health of healthcare professionals. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of digital eye strain symptoms among ophthalmologists and explore their awareness of and practices related to eye care during EMR usage. Methods: We conducted an observational, cross-sectional questionnaire-based study of 200 ophthalmologists, including medical officers (44%), postgraduate residents (31%), and fellowship trainees (25%). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed the prevalence of eye strain symptoms, awareness of the 20-20-20 rule, and participants’ screen time management practices. Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of eye strain symptoms among participants, with headaches reported by 41.7% of the respondents, dryness by 27.1%, and eye pain by 28.1%. Other symptoms included burning sensation (36.5%), itching (24%), blurred vision (17.7%), foreign-body sensation (12.5%), excessive blink rate (11.5%), and redness (3.1%). Many participants experienced symptoms beyond work hours, particularly blurred vision and headaches, only 11% undergone dry eye workup. A significant number of participants (58%) had dry eye symptoms. Furthermore, most were willing to adopt better screen management practices, such as prescheduled breaks, ergonomic changes, and antireflective coated glasses. Conclusion: Prolonged EMR usage is associated with a high burden of digital eye strain symptoms among Ophthalmologists. Adoption of preventive practices, such as the 20-20-20-rule and regular screen breaks, is essential to mitigate these effects. The study is limited by its cross-sectional design, dependence on self-reported data, and lack of a clinical examination-based assessment of dry eye disease.