Dr. Vesselin Daskalov: Computer Syndrome is the Modern Eye Disease

More and more people spend a large part of their day in front of computers, phones, and tablets. This directly affects the eyes – redness, blurred vision, and a feeling of fatigue are now among the most common complaints in ophthalmology clinics. At the same time, modern medicine offers solutions for problems that until recently seemed incurable. For these challenges, as well as for the latest advancements in ophthalmology, the team of the Sofia Medical Association spoke with Dr. Vesselin Daskalov – a leading ophthalmic surgeon and director of the specialized eye hospital „PENTAGRAM“.

What issues do patients most often come to you with today?

In the dynamic times we live in, young people mostly suffer from the so-called computer vision syndrome. Patients complain of visual fatigue, blurred vision, frequent blinking, itching, and burning in the eyes. In such cases, the use of artificial tears is necessary.

In older patients, we most often talk about presbyopia – age-related farsightedness. It manifests after the age of 40 and affects about 40% of the population. Correction can be done with glasses, but there are now other options as well – laser procedures or the placement of multifocal intraocular lenses.

Is ‘screen fatigue’ the new eye disease?

Yes. When I was a student, we didn’t even talk about such a condition. However, with the advent of computers, screen fatigue has become a widespread problem. Anyone who works more than 4 hours in front of a screen inevitably experiences visual fatigue. The symptoms are redness, burning, and a sensation of a foreign body in the eye. In such cases, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist and have an annual preventive examination.

What diseases are most commonly encountered after the age of 40?

These are glaucoma and cataracts. Glaucoma is associated with increased intraocular pressure, while cataracts represent clouding of the lens. Cataract treatment is surgical – replacing the lens with an artificial one.

You mentioned glaucoma and cataracts, what is their modern treatment?

For glaucoma, we have a wide range of implants – express implant, Ahmed valve, and the relatively new Xen. These direct fluid from the anterior chamber of the eye and permanently reduce intraocular pressure. The results are much better and longer-lasting compared to classical trabeculectomy.

As for cataracts, the progress has been revolutionary. Today, nearly all patients receive intraocular lenses, and in addition to standard monofocal lenses, multifocal and extended-focus lenses are now used. Laser-assisted surgeries have also been increasingly applied.

What symptoms should not be underestimated and indicate the need for a visit to a specialist?

Every patient who experiences visual fatigue, eye redness, a foreign body sensation, or other atypical symptoms should seek medical attention. It is advisable to have preventive check-ups at least once a year.

Are patients visiting eye clinics more often compared to previous years?

Definitely. People are more informed, especially the younger ones. They read, take an interest, and ask relevant questions. Attendance is higher compared to decades ago.

What are the most significant achievements in ophthalmology in recent years?

Over the past 20 years, development has been extremely rapid. For cataracts, we now use multifocal lenses and laser techniques. For retinal detachment, the results have significantly improved thanks to gas implants. There has also been progress in macular holes and epiretinal membranes – the success rate for surgeries is over 90%.

In pediatric ophthalmology, there are now medications for treating hereditary diseases like Leber’s congenital amaurosis, which provide partial vision to otherwise blind patients. Refractive surgery is also a major field – with laser procedures and intraocular lenses, we correct diopters, astigmatism, and even part of presbyopia.

The full interview can be watched on the TikTok channel of the Sofia Medical Association