In
the last several years, the computer has become almost a necessity
in our lives. Most businesses and institutions now totally rely on
the power of computing for many of their basic day-to-day operations.
Individual computer use has skyrocketed now that the price of computers
has come down and the Internet has become so popular. The increasing
use of computers has resulted in the discovery of many computer-related
health problems.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a well-recognized health problem that
can result from repeated movements involving the wrist, such as typing.
The carpal tunnel is a "tunnel" under the skin of the palm
side of the wrist. A nerve called the median nerve runs through this
tunnel, which is formed by bones and ligaments of the wrist. Repeated
motions of the wrist can inflame and narrow the carpal tunnel, which
puts pressure on the median nerve and can potentially lead to nerve
irritation and damage.
People affected with CTS often feel numbness and/ or tingling in the
first three fingers of the hand and part of the palm. Some also experience
pain in the wrist, hand, or fingers. Wrist splints and anti-inflammatory
drugs such as aspirin often help with symptoms; however, people with
severe cases of CTS may need surgery. To avoid CTS, people should
use as little force as possible when using a keyboard or mouse. In
other words, avoid pounding the keys on the keyboard or holding the
mouse tightly.
Eyestrain is another common complaint in those who use computers frequently.
It is thought to be due to prolonged staring at computer screens with
decreased blinking. Symptoms can include burning, itching, tiredness,
aching, or watering in the eyes as well as blurry vision or even altered
color perception. The eyestrain can also lead to tension headaches
and some believe it may rarely lead to permanent vision problems.
People who use computers for long periods of time are advised to take
regular breaks from staring at the computer screen. Roughly every
15 minutes, a short break should be taken to look away from the computer
screen and around the room while making a conscious effort to blink
several times. Brief periods of eye closure also help give the eyes
a rest - just make sure the boss doesn't think you're taking a nap!
Neck and back pain are common complaints among those who use computers
frequently. If the head has to be constantly turned or the neck always
flexed while using the computer, muscle strain and chronic nagging
pains can result. A person should be able to most comfortably view
the computer screen while his or her head is in a relaxed, neutral
position. Good posture and support in the lower back are also important
to avoid muscle strain or pain in the back. The mouse should be close
to the body so that it can be reached with the arms and shoulders
in a relaxed position.
Those who use the computer and Internet for long periods of time have
a decreased amount of time to interact with the people around them.
Lack of face-to-face personal contact places individuals at a higher
risk for depression. Countless hours spent in "chat rooms"
or other social Internet activities are a poor substitute for true
personal interaction.
Most of these computer-related health problems can be reduced or completely
prevented through several easy measures. First, the computer workstation
should be set-up in a way that is "user friendly" to the
individual. Adjusting the mouse, keyboard and monitor position, as
well as finding a comfortable chair and desk and adjusting them as
needed, are a good start. Also taking frequent breaks to stretch,
getting up and moving around, resting the eyes and shifting position
can help prevent muscle strain. People are advised to avoid pounding
the keyboard keys or having a "death grip" on the mouse.
Most keyboards and mice are quite sensitive to the touch - if not,
these items may need to be replaced. Lastly, people should not be
ignorant and should seek treatment if any symptoms of the above-mentioned
conditions do begin to occur. Waiting until symptoms become severe
often makes the final health outcome worse.
Computer-related health problems are becoming more and more common
as technology advances. The power of computing has changed our lives
in many ways, and will continue to do so in future too. But at the
same time precautions need to be taken, otherwise computers won't
always make our lives any easier!
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