Digital Eye Strain (DES) among children attending online classes during COVID-19 pandemic in Al-Madinah region, Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACT

Background: Digital eye strain is a group of eye disorders caused by usage of digital devices. Online learning has replaced the traditional methods during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objectives: To determine the prevalence, symptoms, frequency, and associated risk factors of Digital eye strain and the pattern of digital device usage among children attending online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed among parents of children. Results: Out of 443 participants, the majority were females (51.5%). Tablets (47.6%) and smart phones (40.6%) were the most commonly used for online classes. The commonest Digital eye strain symptoms were headache (27.5%), excessive blinking (25.6%), redness (25.3%) and itching (24.8%). Severe eye strain was reported among (14%) of children. Children's preference for smart phones and tablets and an increase in hours spent on digital devices were some of the risk factors of Digital eye strain in our study. Conclusions: A high prevalence of Digital eye strain has been reported among children who attended online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic.