Evaluation of an Updated Version of the Program "BlinkBlink" for Alleviation of Dry Eye Symptoms Induced by Computer Work

The increased use of digital devices and the resulting increase in near work has increased the prevalence of dry eye disease (DED).

Studies show that blink frequency reduced considerably during computer work, hence the tear film is spread less regularly over the anterior surface of the eye giving rise to an unstable tear film. This may lead to tired, dry eyes.

The aim of this study was to observe if the tear film quality and dry eye symptoms may improve with the use of the computer animation program "BlinkBlink" during prolonged computer work. Participating subjects test two versions of the program, whereby one version applies the animation in a much lower frequency, hence serving as a near placebo version. The testing order of the versions is randomized.

The variables tested in this study are non-invasive tear film break up (NIBUT) and subjective dry eye symptoms with the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire.

Inclusion criteria

• duration of computer work of at least six hours per day during at least four days per week
• OSDI score ≥ 18
• no active pathology on the anterior eye
• Snellen visual acuity of ≥ 0.8.

Exclusion criteria

• acute systemic disease
• contact lens wear
• asthenopia