Digital Strain and its Impact on Visual and Auditory Health in an Online Learning Environment: A Cross-sectional Study

Kumar, Ramadevi and Arumugam, Gothainayagi and Ravi, Rangeela and Nehru, Samuraj and Nedunchezian, Sasirekha and Kumar, Sevvanthi (2025) Digital Strain and its Impact on Visual and Auditory Health in an Online Learning Environment: A Cross-sectional Study. National Journal of Community Medicine, 16 (5). 436 - 443. ISSN 09763325; 22296816

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Abstract

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns extended beyond respiratory health to include visual and auditory well-being in school-aged children. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of digital device-related visual and auditory strain in children. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study using simple random sample technique as well as multistage cluster sampling was carried out at selected schools at Puducherry, India, from January 2022 to May 2022. Using a self-administered questionnaire, demographic information as well as digital-related visual and auditory strain were evaluated. Results: Of the 268 participants, 5.6% reported having moderate digital eye strain and 27.6% had mild digital eye strain. Students reported burning sensations (35.07%), dryness (20.14%), and itching (37.68%) as common visual discomforts. In the meantime, 7.5% of respondents reported significant auditory strain, and 10.4% reported mild strain. Ear irritation (17.91%), ear infections (7.46%), ringing in the ears (16.79%), and ear blockage (13.43%) are among the symptoms. Risk factors for eye strain included participant age (P=0.020), wearing spectacles (P<0.001), the number of hours spent using a device outside of class (P=0.009), and the distance between the device and the user (P=0.018). Age (P<0.05), sex (P<0.001), students' grade (P<0.001), hours spent (P<0.05), and headphone use (P<0.001) were all significantly correlated with auditory strain. Conclusions: The hybrid learning environment posed diverse challenges for students, highlighting the significant impact of both visual and auditory health. The findings advocate for proactive measures for students’ overall health. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.

Item Type: Article
Additional Information: Cited by: 0; All Open Access; Gold Open Access
Subjects: Health Professions > Optometry
Divisions: Medicine > Vinayaka Mission's Kirupananda Variyar Medical College and Hospital, Salem
Depositing User: Unnamed user with email techsupport@mosys.org
Date Deposited: 26 Nov 2025 10:14
Last Modified: 26 Nov 2025 10:14
URI: https://vmuir.mosys.org/id/eprint/193

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