Exploring the link between convergence insufficiency and electronic device use

Namrata Srivastava 1, * and Nitesh Srivastava 2

1 Department of Optometry ERA University of Allied Health Science, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
2 Department of Optometry personal line Command Hospital Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
 
Review
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024, 13(02), 1339–1348.
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2024.13.2.2195
Publication history: 
Received on 07 October 2024; revised on 19 November 2024; accepted on 21 November 2024
 
Abstract: 
Purpose: This literature review aims to explore the potential link between Convergence insufficiency (CI) and the use of electronic devices. CI is a common binocular vision disorder characterized by difficulty in maintaining proper eye alignment during near tasks.
Method: Search the literature using keywords such as “Convergence insufficiency ", "electronic devices", "smartphones", "tablets" and "computer" in electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar. The review included studies examining the relationship between CI and electronics, including experimental and observational studies.
Results: These used various methods, including surveys, clinical studies, and experimental designs. Findings suggest that prolonged and excessive use of electronic devices may lead to developing or worsening CI symptoms.. Factors such as close work, decreased frequency, and perceived fatigue associated with the use of electronic devices have been implicated as potential mechanisms behind this relationship. However, the evidence remains limited and inconclusive, as some studies report conflicting results.
Conclusion: Although there is some evidence of a possible link between CI and electronics, more research is needed to establish a positive relationship. The results of this literature review highlight the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles and raising awareness of the risks associated with the overuse of electronic devices, especially for people with CI. Future research should focus on investigating prevention and interventions to reduce the negative effects of electronic devices on vision health.
 
Keywords: 
Convergence Insufficiency; Binocular Vision Disorders; E-Learning; Digital Eye Strain; Computer Vision Syndrome.
 
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