Spotlight on Digital Eye Strain.

Digital Eye Strain (DES) is a clinical syndrome manifested with visual disturbances and/or ophthalmic dysfunction related to the usage of screen-enabled digital equipment. This term is gradually replacing the older term computer vision syndrome (CVS) that focused on the same symptoms found on personal computer users. DES is encountered more frequently during the past years due to the explosive increase in the usage of digital devices and subsequent increase in time in front of any screens. It presents with a series of atypical symptoms and signs stemming from asthenopia, dry eye syndrome, preexisting untreated vision issues and poor screen ergonomics. This review summarizes research data to date to determine whether the concept of DES has been conclusively defined and demarcated as a separate entity and if sufficient guidance is offered on professionals and the lay public. The maturity of the field, grouping of symptoms, examination techniques, treatment and prevention modalities are summarily presented.

Drop in well-being of ARMD patients under treatment with anti-VEGF injections during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PURPOSE: Patients with age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) are required to follow a treatment protocol that requires regular follow-ups. The COVID-19 pandemic has created an additional burden for patients with ARMD under treatment with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections, since patients face a congestion of the health system and closing of the outpatient services. This study examines the impact of the uncertainty regarding patients' treatment on their sense of well-being. METHODS: This is a longitudinal cohort study of eighty patients who were followed during the year following the outbreak of the COVID pandemic. Patients reported their sense of well-being with the WHO-5 questionnaire and their perception and fears for the impact of the pandemic on their ongoing ARMD treatment. RESULTS: There was a significant drop in mental well-being during the pandemic that paralleled the self-reported impact of the pandemic on ARMD treatment. Patients who reported a higher impact of COVID-19 on their treatment had experienced a higher drop in mental wellbeing compared to those who hadn't, with female gender being an additional risk factor. Objective measurements of visual acuity did not factor in the drop of sense of well-being. CONCLUSIONS: The high initial level of uncertainty regarding ARMD patients' long-term course was further exacerbated when exposed to additional uncertainties during the pandemic regarding their standard of care. Planning ahead for continuation of services and close contact with patients during similar health emergencies is of paramount importance.

Patient Adherence to Glaucoma Treatment During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Introduction In medicine, patient adherence refers to the degree to which a patient correctly follows medical advice, and it most commonly pertains to medication or drug compliance. Patient adherence to glaucoma treatment has been a frequent and serious issue that is associated with adverse long-term outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors that are associated with adherence to glaucoma treatment among patients during the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods This was a cross-sectional study involving 100 consecutive glaucoma outpatients who were interviewed based on the modified version (ARMS2-COVID) of the original Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale 2 (ARMS2) that examined adherence to medication. Length of treatment and disease onset along with basic demographic details (gender, age, socioeconomic status, and educational levels) of the patients were also recorded. Results The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionally impacted patients of older age (p=0.033) and lower educational levels (p<0.001) with regard to their ability to follow their treatment plan regardless of the duration of previous treatment. Conclusions Based on our findings, in order to ensure higher levels of patient adherence among patients of older age with limited education, more planning will be required, aided by appropriate educational interventions and proactive patient follow-ups.