Effects on Accommodation and Symptoms of Yellow-Tinted, Low Plus Lenses

Introduction: Yellow-tinted, low plus eyeglasses have been advertised as a cure for computer vision syndrome. In the first of two studies, the claims of one brand of “digital performance eyewear” are evaluated. Methods: A crossover study of 36 subjects was conducted to examine the difference between low plus (+0.50D) yellowtinted computer spectacles and placebo lenses. The two pairs of eyeglasses were in similar frames, and both sets of lenses were made of similar resin with antireflective coating, but the placebo lenses were made without optical power or tint. Measurements of dynamic accommodation and pupil size at 5 Hz, along with subjective symptoms experienced with each type of glasses, were made. Results: Wilcoxon matched pair testing revealed a significant difference in the symptom of irritation or burning of the eyes. Pupil size was significantly different (p=0.001), but differences in the accommodative responses to the two lens types were not significant (p=0.56). Conclusions: While some participant symptoms were reduced when using the yellow-tinted, low-plus eyeglasses that we studied, no objective reason was found when accommodation and pupil size were monitored five times per second. A follow-up study that will test tear film, blink rate, and quantified squinting is indicated to discover an objective reason for this preference.