Problems of the “Outer Eyes” in the Office Environment

OBJECTIVE: To assist health professionals dealing with the complex clinical picture of "outer" eye symptoms-among top-two in office environments--by an ergophthalmologic approach. METHOD: The terms "precorneal tear film" (PTF) and eye/ocular discomfort and irritation symptoms were searched together with a number of environmental and personal factors in databases such as PubMed. RESULTS: The microclimate (humidity and temperature), environmental pollution, working conditions and habits, contact lenses, certain medication, nutrition, and personal care products alter the PTF. Ocular allergies also contribute to the overall incidence of ocular symptoms and diseases. CONCLUSIONS: These mechanisms alter the structure and chemical composition of the PTF leading to desiccation and hyperosmolarity. A third mechanism causes trigeminal stimulation by air pollutants; in indoor environments by concerted action of the two former mechanisms. Hygienic habits prevent alteration of the PTF.