what are some health concerns one faces when using a computer a lot during the course of the day

• Migraines and Headaches. There are headaches and then there are migraine headaches. Excessive staring at a screen can contribute to the severity and frequency of both.
• Vertigo. Being a little dizzy sounds funny, but vertigo is a serious issue. Imagine feeling like you’re going to fall over all the time.
• Macular Degeneration. Imagine that there’s a darkened or blacked-out circle in the middle of everything you look at. That’s what macular degeneration does.
• Depression and Anxiety. Excessive computer use doesn’t cause depression and anxiety but it can make it worse for many reasons.
Tics, Epilepsy, and Tourette Syndrome. Tics and epilepsy aren’t conditions that are caused by computers, but they can be exacerbated by them.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. As the name suggests, there’s a tunnel in your wrist. Through that tunnel travels the median nerve. ...
Chronic Neck and Back Pain. We talked about being hunched over causing headaches before. That hunching can lead to poor posture and a host of neck and back pain problems.
The Prevention and Possibly the Cure. It’s painfully obvious what the top preventative measure is, isn’t it? Use computers and smartphones less.

Full Answer

What are the health problems caused by the extensive use of computers?

It could help us to know the health problems caused by the extensive use of computers and the possible solutions to prevent or overcome it. Stamatellos (2007) stated in his work that the extensive use of computers can result two possible health problems: the “Computer Vision Syndrome” (CVS) and the “Repetitive Strain Injury” (RSI).

Is working in front of a computer bad for your health?

But, with increasing number of computer users, the number health issues are also growing at a rapid pace. If you work in front of a computer for a few hours that too once in a while you may not be at a health risk.

Why is my computer so bad for my eyes?

Computers are notorious for their bright lights, glare and flickering images that can cause strain on your eyes. Finding that you constantly focusing on the screen with delays in blinking can result in drying out your eyes. Make sure to adjust the brightness on your computer screen so that your eyes are not as strained.

What are the harmful effects of computer on the shoulder?

Harmful effects of computer. Too much of this activity stretches your shoulder muscles , and this results to the spasm , the fatigue , the headaches and the stiffness in the neck and the shoulder, Long term effects may include severe shoulder pain and the muscular imbalance .

1. Musculoskeletal Problems

This includes areas of your body such as your back, neck, chest, arms, shoulders and feet.

2. Vision Problems

Computers are notorious for their bright lights, glare and flickering images that can cause strain on your eyes.

3. Repetitive Stress Injuries

You may notice pain in your neck, shoulders, or really anywhere from the shoulders to your fingers related to repetitive muscle use.

4. Headaches

Headaches are common and may occur because of the increased muscle tension or from pain in the neck.

5. Obesity

Prolonged use of computers may lead to an overall sedentary lifestyle that lacks adequate physical activity and/or exercise.

7. Laptop Use Injuries

Laptop injuries fall into a category of their own; there is a growing use of laptops that continues to cause more pain and strain among those individuals who use them.

8. Sleeping Problems

Artificial lighting that is given off from computer screens can actually trick your brain and suppress its release of melatonin – the substance that assists your sleeping patterns.

Why does my computer screen strain my eyes?

4- Strain In the Eyes. Causes: Glare from monitor, sun glare directly coming in straight on to the monitor from windows, lighting arrangement of the room are some causes that put strain on the eyes. Corrective Measures: The correct thing to do is to place the computer table between lights and not directly under them.

What happens if you don't adjust your chair properly?

Wrong chair or a chair not adjusted properly can result into knee, buttocks and shoulder pain also. Get to know about posture breaks and wrist exercise. Room temperature also plays an important part. Pain in the muscles may result into spasm if temperature of the room you are working in is very low.

Why does typing hurt my neck?

Causes: While typing when one is moving the neck up and down, left and right too much it causes neck pain. Use of wrong type of glasses (like bifocals), Height of screen. It may sound strange to some of you but some people sit on the computer with mouthpiece of phone hanging around their neck. This casual attitude is not cool at all!#N#Corrective Measures: A document holder is a must to restrict neck movement. Take opticians advice and go for special glasses that you can use while in front of the computer. Screen’s height should be adjusted parallel to eyesight not too high and not too low.

Is obesity a problem with computers?

Obesity is the number one issue with the use of technology including computer. The amount of obesity is very high in the modern countries that using computers and the number one health problems caused by use of computers is in more advanced countries. However, if people try to have a regular exercise schedule in their weekly plan ...

Why are video games used in comparison?

Comparison is the thief of joy, as the saying goes. On the other hand, there are video games designed to help people with depression and anxiety. So, like any other tool, computers can be used to fix problems or, if misused, really destroy things.

How does staring at a bright light affect your brain?

So everything you do with your eyes directly affects your brain. Staring at a bright light is bound to cause strain, leading to pain, and eventually a headache.

Can computers cause tics?

Tics and epilepsy aren’t conditions that are caused by computers, but they can be exacerbated by them. Tics are often related to Tourette’s Syndrome, so if excessive computer use can trigger tics it can also negatively affect people living with Tourette’s Syndrome. It’s also common knowledge that flickering lights can trigger epileptic seizures.

Can flickering lights cause seizures?

It’s also common knowledge that flicker ing lights can trigger epileptic seizures. Computer screens flicker constantly. It’s a part of how they work. In an article from the Tourette Syndrome Parents, their top recommendation to help reduce the symptoms of Tourette’s is less screen time.

Can screen time cause vertigo?

And sometimes you do. Vertigo is closely related to migraines. So if excessive screen time can cause migraines, it can certainly trigger or worsen vertigo. Every computer screen has a flicker. Generally you don’t recognize it, but that does not mean you don’t see it.

Does computer use cause depression?

Excessive computer use doesn’t cause depression and anxiety but it can make it worse for many reasons. We know that exercise, good nutrition, fresh air and sunshine are powerful aides in dealing with depression and anxiety.

Can constant use of anything lead to problems?

Constant use of anything is going to lead to problems. Computers are no different, and it could be argued that humans spend more time on them, including smartphones, than anything else we do. Except maybe sleeping. This can cause, or make worse, some serious medical conditions.

Why do people use computers for long periods of time?

Because of the computer’s speed and efficiency, we always turn to it to get our work done. As a result, many people tend to spend long hours using it. And using the computer for an extended period of time results to several health problems.

Why is the wide use of computers important?

The wide of using computers has led some important health concerns, which is associated with occupational safety and health concerns. Many people use computers as part of their job. If you use one and suffer illnesses it may be because of the way you are using the computer.

What is CVS in computer?

CVS is a series of eye problems due to staring at the monitor of a computer for a long period of time. RSI is an intense pain felt on a particular muscle, joint or ligament that is used to repeat the exact same movements.

What is computer science?

Computer Science as used in this research refers to the study of the theoretical and practical use of the computer system. Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) as used in this research refers to eye strain problem due to staring at the monitor of a computer for long period of time.

How far away from the edge of a desk should you place a mouse?

To prevent injury using a mouse, place the mouse at least six inches from the edge of the desk. The eye strain is not a serious or long term illnesses. You should get regular eye examination, through this you can take care of yourself.

How to prevent injury when typing?

Stretching and doing some simple wrist in your hands and arms. To prevent injury to typing, place a wrist rest between the key board and at the edge of your desk. To prevent injury using a mouse, place the mouse at least six inches from the edge of the desk.

What does it mean to be a computer science student?

As computer science students, this means that when we graduate, we will eventually get a job that will require us to use computer for long periods of time. It is important that we should know the risk of our profession such as the health problems that we would most likely have to face.

What are the most common health problems caused by computer use?

Let’s look at 3 of the most common health problems caused by computer use and how you can combat them. 1. Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. This is one of the most common health problems caused by computer use. Patients suffering from CTS endure years of pain in their hands and wrists.

Why do we have health problems with computers?

This is mainly caused because we restrict our movement for long hours when we sit in front of the computer. Let’s look at 3 of the most common health problems ...

How to prevent CTS?

There is no proven way to prevent CTS; however you can reduce the risk of CTS by reducing the level of stress put on hands and wrists during a long work hour. CTS is caused by continuous stress and restrictive movement, so take frequent stretch-breaks. Gently bend and stretch your arms and wrists after every 30 minutes of continuous work.

What is the condition where you can't see on your computer?

2. Asthenopia. Also known as fatigue of eyes, this is a disorder which leads to several types of problems such as headache, pain around the eyes, double vision, and fatigue. This is commonly caused when we keep staring at the computer screen for a long time without taking a break.

Why do I feel dizzy after working on a computer?

When working in front of the computer the eyes have to continuously focus on the computer screen. This can cause irritation in the eyes which can lead to headache and fatigue. This is the primary reason we feel fatigued and dizzy after working in front of the computer for long hours even though our bodies were completely at rest.

Why do my hands hurt when I hold a cup?

In some advanced cases it can makes simple chores like holding a cup or dusting furniture seem like impossible tasks. Carpel tunnel syndrome is mainly caused due to the continuous stress put on the wrist joints during prolonged computer use.

What are the effects of computer use?

Harmful effects of computer. The computer use can cause vision problems which are called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), The glare on the screen of the computer, the reduced level of contrast of text to the background, and letters not being as sharp or clear, This can put more stress on your eyes, The symptoms of CVS include eye strain, ...

How bad is a CRT monitor?

CRT monitor can have up to 2.2kg of lead-based on the glass used, Lead poisoning can happen through the fumes, food contamination, skin absorption, Lead is harmful to the children because it interferes with the development of the nervous system, It is a neurotoxin that can harm the kidneys and ...

What are computers made of?

The computers are made of heavy metals and dangerous chemicals, The heavy metals including Lead which can be found in the Cathode Ray Tube, the glass of the monitor, and the solder in the circuit board of the CPU.

How far away should your monitor be from your computer?

You should rest your eyes to prevent the eye problems, Take a 10-minute break every hour when you are working on the computer, Your monitor should be directly in front of you, and should be 24-26 inches away from you, Remember to use larger fonts and good color contrasts, These things will reduce the eye strain while you are working.

Can computer addiction cause back pain?

The computer addiction can cause physical damage, Using the mouse and the keyboard for many hours every day can lead to the repetitive stress injuries, The back problems are common among the people who spend a lot of time sitting at the computer desks.

Is computer use harmful?

Harmful health effects of the computer on the human body. People who use the computers for an extensive period of time may complain about headaches & pains in their wrists, arms & necks , These pains are due to using the computer keyboard for a long amount of time, They also suffer from muscle pain due to fatigue, So, ...

Can a dirty keyboard cause staph?

In addition to spreading cold and flu bugs, dirty tech tools can lead to staph and other serious infections.

Can computer use cause depression?

Recently, British scientists discovered a link between computer usage and depression. IT workers typically manage crises and disaster recovery, which can be extremely stressful. In addition to causing mood swings and anxiety, recurring stress can lead to a variety of physical symptoms.

Can sitting in an office chair cause back pain?

Slouching in an office chair for hours at a time can cause serious aches and pains, especially in the lower back. Over time, bad posture can permanently damage the spinal structure, leading to severe, chronic pain.

What to do if you work at a computer all day?

If you work at a computer all day or spend a lot of your free time on a smartphone, tablet or other electronic device, give your eyes frequent breaks. This will offset some of the technology-related health risks.

How much time do Americans spend on electronic media?

Americans use electronic media 11 or more hours a day, according to Nielsen’s Total Audience Report. This puts them at risk of many technology-related health problems. The bulk of this time is taken up by traditional activities like watching TV and listening to the radio. But it also includes time glued to smartphones, computers and game consoles.

How to reduce digital eye strain?

You can reduce digital eye strain by changing where you place your electronic screens. This may also reduce your risk of becoming nearsighted over the long run, because your eyes will focus further away.

Do reading glasses help with stress?

But special glasses may reduce the stress on your eyes by taking on some of the focusing work. “We recommend in some cases a very mild pair of computer or reading glasses to wear over their contact lenses,” said Jacquot, “or even if they’re not wearing any correction for distance, just to take some of the edge off.”.

Is technology harmful to your health?

Technology-related health risks are not inevitable. But as with most things, the key to healthy eyes and sleep is moderating your use of electronics and being proactive when it comes to taking care of your body. “Screens are part of life, so we’re not going to eliminate screen use,” said Jacquot.

Is artificial light bad for you?

This can also lead to other health problems, including obesity. Any artificial light before bedtime can throw off your body’s production of melatonin — the hormone that regulates your internal clock and tells you that it’s time to sleep.