5 worst health problems common with computer use

It’s perhaps ironic that this article was written and posted online using a computer – it just shows how integral and indispensable these devices have become in our daily lives (including working lives). With that said, this doesn’t mean there’s absolutely no scope to reduce our computer usage or take steps to mitigate their effects. In fact, keeping our computer usage in check is something we must seriously consider as our health and wellbeing depends on it. This Pacific Prime article explains why by exploring some health problems common with computer use. 

1. Musculoskeletal problems 

Anyone who spends more than a couple of hours glued to their computer screens – in other words, anyone with a desk job – will find back pain, shoulder pain, chest pain, and other pain associated with muscle fatigue to be a common occurrence. This is usually due to bad posture that stems from sitting on an uncomfortable chair or having an uncomfortable workstation. The solution? Get a standing desk, ergonomic chair, and put reminders to get up and go for a walk or do some stretches every now and then. 

2. Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

While typing may sound harmless at first glance, all that clicking and clacking can lead to damage. Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) may occur, which is damage to your muscles, tendons, or nerves caused by repetitive motions and constant use, and lead to conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger and trigger thumb, etc. You can prevent RSI by adjusting the mouse beside the keyboard, typing gently (without fixing your wrists in a certain position), and relaxing your arms or stretching wherever possible. 

3. Vision problems (and headaches)

Did you know that viewing a computer screen often makes your eyes work harder? This is because of bright lights, bad glare, flickering images, and poor contrast, which can make you more vulnerable to vision-related symptoms such as eyestrain, dry eyes, blurred visions, headaches, and more. So remember to adjust the computer screen to avoid glare – especially from overhead lighting or windows – and consider using anti-glare screens. The location of the computer screen, your seating position, and rest breaks are all important factors as well. 

4. Obesity 

Granted, use of computer doesn’t exactly cause you to become obese. However, it can cause you to become inactive, which can contribute to obesity. Sitting for long stretches at a time and staring at a screen may reduce your time for exercise and lead to a sedentary lifestyle. Fortunately, the solution is quite simple – get moving! Consider walking or biking to work, hitting the gym during your lunch break, or making time for sports and outdoor activities after work. You can even invite your colleagues to join you and turn exercise into a social activity. 

5. Stress

Again, stress is not strictly the result of computer use. But prolonged computer use is often linked to a stress-inducing environment such as an unhealthy work-life balance, poor health and lifestyle choices, as well as less time spent outdoors in nature and surrounded by greenery. Combating stress is easier said than done because it requires a shift in perspective, but some quick fixes include going to therapy, practicing yoga and mindfulness, exercising regularly, and spending time with loved ones.

Get in touch with Pacific Prime today!

Like with any health problems, it’s vital to get diagnosed and treated early on for the health problems associated with computer use. But the cost of medical care is often a deterring factor, and many people put off seeing their healthcare provider. This is why it’s crucial to have a health insurance plan in place, such as one provided by your employer or one you secure yourself (in case you want more benefits or don’t want your health plan to be tied to your employment). 

Don’t know where to begin in your hunt for suitable health insurance plans? Don’t worry as you’ve come to the right place. Pacific Prime can help you find and compare plans from insurance companies, providing impartial advice and empowering you to take charge of your health, as well as supporting and assisting you throughout the entire process. Contact us to get a FREE insurance quote and kick start your insurance journey today!