Digital Eye Strain (DES)

With the widespread use of digital devices and prolonged screen exposure, digital eye strain (DES), also known as computer vision syndrome, has become a global public health concern. Emerging evidence suggests that the gut-eye axis may play an important role in ocular health, as gut microbiota imbalance is associated with systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. Specific probiotics may help alleviate eye discomfort through modulation of immune responses and enhancement of antioxidant defense mechanisms. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study aims to evaluate the efficacy of supplementation with specific probiotics, Bifidobacterium longum BL531 and Lactobacillus reuteri LR1349, in improving digital eye strain symptoms in adults.

Computer vision syndrome (CVS), also referred to as Digital eye strain (DES), is a group of eye and vision problems caused by prolonged use of electronic devices. The American Optometric Association (APA) defines DES as a group of eye and vision-related problems caused by prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader, and cell phone use. Currently, for more than 20 years, DES has been recognised as a public health issue, and the terms DES are also used to describe the condition, attributed to the wide range of digital devices associated with potential problems.