Neurological Correlates of Prolonged Screen Exposure: Assessing Attention Span Shifts and Neurogenic Pain in Patients with Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
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Original Research | 2026 | Volume 2 | Issue 1 | Page 26-33
Dr. Shahan Layek, Independent Researcher, West Bengal, India, Email: layekcallmeshahan@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Computer Vision Syndrome is a highly prevalent condition traditionally characterized by ocular discomfort and visual disturbances resulting from prolonged digital screen exposure. However, the systemic neurological implications, particularly alterations in cognitive function and the onset of neurogenic pain, remain inadequately explored. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between excessive screen time, shifts in sustained attention spans, and the prevalence of neurogenic pain in patients diagnosed with Computer Vision Syndrome.
METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving one hundred and twenty adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of Computer Vision Syndrome and eighty age-matched healthy controls. Sustained attention span was objectively measured using standardized neurocognitive continuous performance tests. The incidence and severity of neurogenic pain, including cervicogenic headaches and tension-type neuralgias, were quantified using validated clinical pain scales. Data were statistically analyzed to establish correlations between daily screen exposure duration, cognitive performance, and pain severity.
RESULTS: Patients with Computer Vision Syndrome exhibited a statistically significant reduction in sustained attention spans compared to the control group, with cognitive fatigue manifesting markedly earlier during testing. Furthermore, seventy-five percent of the patient cohort reported recurrent neurogenic pain, predominantly presenting as chronic tension-type and occipital headaches. A strong positive correlation was identified between daily screen exposure exceeding six hours and both the severity of neurogenic pain and the degree of attention span degradation.
CONCLUSION: The pathophysiology of Computer Vision Syndrome extends significantly beyond the ocular surface, encompassing profound neurological and cognitive dimensions. Prolonged screen exposure induces measurable shifts in attention span and serves as a major catalyst for neurogenic pain. These findings highlight the critical need for comprehensive neuro-ophthalmological management and targeted cognitive-behavioral strategies in the digital era.
KEYWORDS: Computer Vision Syndrome, Screen Exposure, Attention Span, Neurogenic Pain, Cognitive Fatigue, Neuro-ophthalmology.