The Right Way To Recharge

The overuse of gadgets could lead to several health complications. Faye Remedios urges you to switch off and reclaim your life.

It’s official: technology is our ultimate frenemy. It can help us make connections, order conveniences and even save our lives; but if we give it free rein, it can feed our worst demons. Dependence on social media and a sedentary, desk-bound lifestyle has been linked to obesity, insomnia, hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol, besides chronic pain in the neck and back. Science is still exploring how mobile phone radiation affects our health. Addiction to the virtual world can fuel anxiety and isolation. Several studies, such as the one done by the University of Michigan psychologist Ethan Kross, reveal that loneliness and Facebook browsing are inextricably linked, and that excessive web research on health issues can actually increase stress. “Googling just gives you half-knowledge because you can never be certain about anything. When it comes to your health, seek an expert’s opinion instead,” says Dr Priyanka Sudan, an in-house clinical consultant at telemedicine portal, Health enable India Pvt. Ltd. We list the ways in which your favourite gadgets might be hurting your body, and get expert advice on how to reverse the damage.

EYE BURN

THE PAIN: Staring at the computer or laptop screen for long periods can result in dry eye syndrome, which used to be an issue associated with old age. “Staring at bright screens has become a part of our daily life, whether it is the television, computer, iPod or phone. It is a major cause of various problems like dry eyes, strain and headaches. While looking directly at bright screens we tend to blink less causing dry eyes; this increases the strain on the eyes, and with time, leads to headaches,” explains Dr Sudan.