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Are you one of those constantly glued to your mobile or laptop? If so, you might be doing it all wrong! Excessive screen time can lead to a plethora of health problems. This article highlights the consequences of overusing phones and laptops. Screens have become an inseparable part of daily life, providing access to information, entertainment, and global connectivity. However, overusing devices like smartphones and laptops can cause physical, mental, and emotional issues. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Manish Pendse, Senior Consultant Physician & Diabetologist at Medicover Hospitals, Kharghar in Navi Mumbai, shared insights into the side effects of excessive screen usage.

What Are The Side Effects Of Digital Eye Strain?

Digital Eye Strain (Computer Vision Syndrome):

Prolonged screen time can cause eye discomfort, dryness, blurred vision, and headaches. This condition, known as digital eye strain, occurs due to reduced blinking and prolonged focus on screens. Following the 20-20-20 rule—looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes—can significantly reduce strain.

Poor Posture And Musculoskeletal Problems:

Constant use of laptops and mobiles can lead to poor posture, resulting in slouching or awkward positions. This can aggravate neck pain, backaches, repetitive strain injuries, and chronic conditions like text neck or carpal tunnel syndrome, which can negatively affect daily activities. Adopting ergonomic setups and taking regular breaks to stretch can help alleviate these issues.

Sleep Problems:

Blue light emitted by screens disrupts melatonin production, a hormone essential for regulating sleep. Scrolling through phones or working late on laptops can lead to insomnia and fatigue. To address this, establish a structured sleep routine and avoid using electronic gadgets before bedtime.

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Mental Well-Being:

Excessive screen time is linked to higher levels of anxiety, stress, and feelings of inadequacy. Constant online exposure can distort perceptions of reality, create false narratives, and strain mental health. People may become fixated on the superficial lives of others, making it difficult to differentiate between real life and online personas. This can lead to frustration, agitation, depression, and loneliness. Reducing screen time and fostering meaningful connections can improve mental well-being.

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In Conclusion Dr. Manish Pendse emphasised that while technology offers countless advantages, it’s crucial to use it cautiously to prevent health issues. By making small changes, individuals can minimize the adverse effects of excessive screen usage and safeguard their overall health.