You could suffer from terrible headaches if you spend all day staring at your smartphone. Here are some tips from an expert to help you.
Most of us scroll, check emails, make social media updates, or watch videos all day. Many people may experience anxiety when they are not using their smartphone. Our mental and physical health is being ruined by the excessive use of smartphones. Recent research has shown that the younger age of smartphone ownership is related to poor mental health later in life.
Digital eye strain can also be caused by using a smartphone continuously. This is due to improper focusing and holding the phone too near the case. This can cause headaches for adults, teenagers, and even young children. Overuse of mobile phones can cause migraine, headaches, dizziness and neck pain. Constantly sitting in front a computer can cause poor posture, eye strain and muscle tension. These all contribute to headaches. (Also Read: Anand Mahindra warns against the dangers of early smartphones use by children, shares important study).
Here’s a guide to reducing headaches caused by excessive smartphone usage. Dr Krishnan P R Senior Consultant – Neurology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road in Bangalore, offers tips.
1. Take a break. Sometimes the simplest solution works best. Take a break from your computer if you have a headache. Close your eyes and take deep breaths. Focus on letting any tension out of your body.
2. Hydrate. Dehydration can worsen headaches. Drink enough water throughout the day. Drink at least eight glasses a day. Keep a bottle of water nearby.
3. Stretching and exercise regularly can reduce muscle tension, which in turn helps to relieve headaches. Consider doing light stretches and exercises throughout the day. Focus on the neck muscles and shoulder muscles which are most prone for tension.
4. Seek professional help: If you suffer from severe or persistent headaches, it is time to seek professional help. A physiotherapist will help you to work out any knots in your neck or shoulders and can improve posture and alignment.
5. Protect your eyes. Eye strain is one of the most common causes of headaches. Consider investing in computer glasses that reduce eye strain and exposure to blue light. Take frequent breaks to rest your eye and avoid staring too long at your screen.
There are many effective treatments for headaches. The first step to finding relief is to seek advice from a qualified neurologist. It is possible to overcome discomfort and return back to normal daily activities and productivity with the right approach,” concludes Dr Krishnan.
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