It is an indisputable fact that, virtually everyone use technology in one form or the other. Name it, mobile phones, computers, iPods, headsets, electronic wrist watches, etc. No doubt that these are very good companions and helpers. They help us save time and money as well as make us efficient. Their benefits to us cannot be quantified as they form an integral part of our existence. One thing we, however, often overlook about the use of these gadgets, is the fact that we are constantly exposed to health risks from radiation emissions from these gadgets. We now have a lot of wireless devices littered all over our offices and houses.
We receive calls without touching the phone via Bluetooth and headsets. I know of someone who always has his Bluetooth strapped to his ear. By doing this constantly exposes him to radiation emission that is very harmful to health. Computers are, nevertheless, so helpful to our society today, and it is not as harmful as it may seem, but here are some common health risks and ways to reduce the risks we constantly have ourselves exposed to:
1. Blue Light Exposure
Exposures to blue light emissions which are emitted by electronic devices are capable of affecting your health in negative ways. The increasing use of electronics with screens, as well as energy-efficient lighting, is increasing our exposure to blue wavelengths, especially after sundown. This is one of the common health hazards associated with electronics. We watch movies on our phones, TVs, computers, Notebooks, etc., for most of the night, especially while lying on our beds. Some of us surf the net and stream those scintillating operas and auditions that we are not aware that we are harming our eye lens. Studies have linked working the night shift and exposure to light at night to several types of cancer (breast, prostate), diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. We, nevertheless, have apps that can help out in this regards, such as the Bluelight Filter App.
Ways to Reduce Blue Light Exposure:
- If you work a night shift or use a lot of electronic devices at night, consider wearing blue-blocking glasses.
- Expose yourself to lots of bright light during the day, which will boost your ability to sleep at night, as well as improve your mood and alertness during daylight.
- Use dim red lights for night lights. Red light has the least power to shift circadian rhythm and suppress melatonin
- Avoid looking at bright screens beginning two to three hours before bed.
- You can get a special glass for protection
- Try to distance your devices away from your eyes but not to the extent of straining the eyes
2. Heat From Laptops
Because it is called a laptop does not mean that you should carry in on your laps all the time. This is what most laptop users do. The original idea behind inventing the laptop was for it to be used for a short time when there is no power supply, but we find ourselves substituting it for Desktop. Laptops are machines and as such they produce heat, which can cause low sperm count in males when used extensively on the laps.
This can be checked by using the desktop as much as you can than laptops. When you are using laptops, avoid putting them on your laps. As heat is emitted from the laptop, it is a risk to your health.
3. Posture Alterations:
This occurs mostly to those who use the laptops and desktops especially at work. The Posture of the person who works on a desk can be affected by prolonged use of computers. Body and joint pains is caused by prolong use of devices. Over-use of the computer can cause injury to your arm and hands as well.
Ways to Reduce Posture alteration: Try to have breaks when using your computer. Also try to use the correct sitting position when working on your computer. You can help avoid computer-related injuries by using proper furniture, better posture and good working habits. Arrange your tasks to avoid long, uninterrupted stretches of using the computer.
There are more technology-related health hazards out there. As always it is in our hands to take measures against being exposed. What other risks do you know of and how can they be checked? Kindly let us know below.
