- By Prerna Targhotra
- Mon, 07 Oct 2024 12:00 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Side Effects Of Using Phones At Night: Almost all of us use our mobile phones at night to scroll through social media, make necessary purchases, set reminders or just to pass time, right? But do you know how dangerous it can be to use your phone before bed at night? In the digital age, where mobile phones are considered an indispensable means of communication, it is surely difficult to stay away from them. Pervasive use of mobile phones, especially at night can be a leading factor for several chronic health illnesses.
The blue light emitted by mobile phones can cause severe eye strain, disrupt natural circadian rhythms and lead to poor sleep quality. Although scrolling through after jumping on your bed at night may seem a normal activity, it can have adverse effects on your health. Let’s explore some possible health risks of using phones at night.
Side Effects Of Using Phones At Night
Keeps Your Mind Engaged
According to the Cleveland Clinic, when it’s time to turn off the lights and go to sleep, the last thing our brain needs is more information and stimulation. Checking your phone stimulates your brain. You are more active and awake. Even just a quick check can engage your brain and delay sleep.
Poor Vision
The blue light from smartphones is an artificial colour that mimics daylight and can have severe effects on your eye health. Continuous exposure to this blue light can affect your cardiac rhythm and make you experience insomnia. The tiredness may cause fatigue and low levels of energy throughout the day.
Poor Sleep Patterns
Using mobile phones at night can be addictive and disrupt your sleep cycle. The blue light emission from smartphones can cause eye pain or watery eyes which may lead to poor sleep. Prolonged exposure to screens at night can cause a delay in the onset of sleep.
Poor Mental Health
Cons Of Using Phones At Night (Image Credits: Canva)
People who use phones at night are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health problems like anxiety. The constant urge to check your phone for any email, messages or other notifications can cause increased stress, anxiety and mood swings.
Impaired Cognitive Function
Using your mobile phones late at night can affect cognitive functions like memory, decision-making skills and attention. This can cause sleep deprivation which can hinder the brain’s ability to make sound decisions.
Tech Neck Syndrome
According to WebMD, too much time looking down at your phone can strain your neck muscles and cause tightness or spasms. You might even get nerve pain that goes to your back, or your shoulder and down your arm. Take breaks at least every 20 minutes to stretch and arch your back.
Long-Term Health Problems
Using phones late at night is associated with an elevated risk of obesity, heart diseases like stroke and heart attack, diabetes and other chronic illnesses.
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(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)