In today's digital age, more and more people spend long hours in front of computer screens, smartphones and other electronic devices. This prolonged exposure to technology can have negative health effects, including a phenomenon known as cybersickness. Cybersickness, also known as digital motion sickness, is an emerging problem that affects a growing number of individuals around the world.
Characteristics of Cybersickness
Cybersickness is characterized by a feeling of imbalance, dizziness, or discomfort that some people experience when using electronic devices for a prolonged period. Unlike traditional dizziness, which can be related to inner ear problems or vertigo, cybersickness has no direct physical cause.
People who experience cybersickness often describe feeling dizzy, nauseous, and eyestrain. , headaches and, in some cases, concentration problems. These symptoms usually worsen the more time spent in front of device screens.
Symptoms of Cybersickness
The most common symptoms of cybersickness include:
- Dizziness or feeling unstable.
- Nausea or upset stomach.
- Visual fatigue or blurred vision.
- Headaches.
- Problems concentrating.
These symptoms can vary in intensity from one person to another, and can interfere with work, study, and daily activities.
Causes of Cybersickness
Cybersickness can be caused by several factors related to prolonged use of electronic devices:
1. Eyestrain:
Looking at bright screens for long periods of time can cause eye strain, which in turn can cause dizziness and headaches.
2. Visual stress:
Constant exposure to blue light emitted by screens can cause tension and stress in the eyes, which contributes to the symptoms of cybersickness.
3. Repetitive head movements:
When using an electronic device, it is common to make repetitive head movements, which can trigger sensory imbalances and cause dizziness.
4. Imbalances in the vestibular system:
The vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation, may become temporarily imbalanced due to prolonged exposure to screens, causing symptoms of dizziness.
How to Combat Cybersickness
If you experience symptoms of cybersickness, there are several strategies you can follow to combat them and reduce their impact on your daily life:
1. Visual rest:
Take frequent breaks while using electronic devices. The 20-20-20 rule can be helpful: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to rest your eyes.
2. Adjust the lighting:
Reduce the brightness of your screens and adjust the lighting in your environment to minimize visual fatigue and eye stress.
3. Control posture:
Maintain proper upright posture when using electronic devices to reduce strain on your back and neck, which can contribute to cybersickness.
4. Limit exposure time:
Try to limit the time you spend in front of electronic device screens and do activities outdoors or that do not require the use of technology to rest your eyes and reduce symptoms of cybersickness .
5. Consult a professional:
If symptoms of cybersickness persist or significantly interfere with your daily life, it is important to consult a health professional, such as an ophthalmologist or a specialist in balance disorders, for advice. accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.
In conclusion, cybersickness is an increasingly common phenomenon in modern society, caused by prolonged exposure to electronic devices. With awareness and appropriate preventive measures, it is possible to combat and mitigate the symptoms of cybersickness to maintain visual health and proper balance in our daily lives.