Computer Vision Syndrome in the Spanish Population during the COVID-19 Lockdown.

SIGNIFICANCE: After 6-8 weeks of mandatory lockdown due to coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Spain, the encouraged change in daily habits resulted in a significant increase of electronic device use. Computer Vision Syndrome-related symptoms were reported more often in participants who used electronic devise for more time and spent less time outdoors. PURPOSE: The main purpose of this study was to evaluate Computer Vision Syndrome-related eye symptoms due to the use of electronic devices during COVID-19 lockdown decreed in Spain in 2020. METHODS: After 6-8 weeks of strict lockdown, a total of 730 participants (18-73 years old) filled in a customized questionnaire divided into three sections: 1) general demographics; 2) usage habits of electronic devices during this period; and 3) Computer Vision Syndrome-related ocular and visual symptoms associated with their use and with ergonomic practices. RESULTS: The daily duration of use of electronic devices increased an average of 3.1 ± 2.2 hours per day during the lockdown, with computer use increasing the most. The main symptoms reported by the participants were headache (36.7%), dry eye (31.1%), irritation (24.1%), blurred vision (21.2%), and ocular pain (14.9%). There was a significant relationship between Computer Vision Syndrome-related symptoms and age (greater in participants between 18-30 years old than >45 years old, P < .001), primary activity (greater in studying from home and remote working, P < .001), and extended periods of electronic device use (greater when used more than 10 hours/day, P = .05). Symptoms were also associated with time spent outdoors (greater in participants with <1 hour per day, P = .02). CONCLUSIONS: The lockdown due to COVID-19 showed an increase in the electronic device use. Participants who spent more time with electronic devices and less time outdoors reported more Computer Vision Syndrome-related eye symptoms.