We can’t deny the threats digital devices bring to our daily routines and our health in general, and besides all the benefits of technology, health risks are always higher.
Now, imagine how risky this can be for teenagers who are constantly exposed to digital devices from a very young age. How dangerous can this be? Well, this text explores all the dangers of digital devices for teens’ eyes and how to reduce such threats, as there is no way we can imagine our future without screens.
Let’s start with less serious health issues
Something most of us notice when using our phones or computers is how tired our eyes become after being exposed to such a screen for a long time. Even though this might not seem so important, this happening repeatedly can lead to serious sight loss, and you’ll probably end up wearing glasses or lenses. Why does this happen?
- You spend way too much time exposed to the unhealthy , which leads you’re focus on such a screen, people usually blink less, which leads to dry and irritated eyes.
Eye changes often happen during the teenage years
Teenage years are the most crucial years for eye development. Most changes occur during this period, and being exposed to an unhealthy environment can have a huge impact on their general health. For example, during this period, teenagers can often develop eye misalignment, causing them serious issues.
Now, getting glasses or lenses in such a situation wouldn’t be a solution, as you can experience headaches, as you’ll still strain your eyes trying to align them and focus on one thing. Besides this problem, many teenagers can experience migraines for many other reasons that are easily connected to their eyes and sight.
The best solution for such a problem is glasses for migraines, as they are designed to block the lights that are causing headaches and other eye issues. Also, getting informed about eye problems that can occur with teenagers, due to screens or other types of threats they’re exposed to on a daily basis, should be your priority, as you can prevent more serious eye issues by staying informed.
More teenagers are becoming nearsighted
One thing we can’t ignore is the fact that the constant use of digital devices, in most cases, results in near-sightedness, especially for teenagers. Why is that the case?
- Teenagers spend way more time on their phones or computers: One of the biggest reasons why teens develop signs of near-sightedness more than other people is exactly because they spend around 8-10 hours using their devices. All this can result in quick sight loss, and many of them end up having to wear glasses or lenses.
- Increased indoor time/decreased outdoor time: We all know that not only teenagers, but also children spend way less time outside than the older generations used to. Even though this might not seem like a huge problem at the time, you have to know that everyone needs to use the benefits of natural light, because that’s what supports our eye development and strengthens our sight.
Unfortunately, as much as we want to prevent this from happening, in many cases, we can only slow down the process or choose to do some serious procedures. Digital devices are part of our daily lives, and we certainly can’t imagine our future without them, so we’re all exposed to such a risk. What the teenagers can do is use protective glasses, reduce screen use, and spend more time outside or reading a book.
What about other health issues…?
Besides mentioning how digital devices affect teen eye health, we also can’t ignore other health issues these small devices can cause. Teenagers are prone to improper posture, especially while using phones or computers. This problem is far more serious with children and teenagers because establishing a bad posture at such a young age can lead to serious back issues. Even though this can’t be noticed immediately, improper posture affects your body slowly but surely.
Is there something you can do?
Now, after mentioning all these ways how digital life is affecting teens and their lifestyle, we have to discuss if there’s something they can do to avoid this.
- Have screen time boundaries. When someone talks about limited screen time, we usually think of children; however, we all should think of this as the perfect solution to reduce phone and computer use, protect our eyes, and enjoy quality time outside, or reading a book.
- Adjust the brightness. Make it a habit to adjust the brightness whenever you’re using digital devices. One of the good features many new devices have is automatic brightness adjustment. Even though this can be a bit annoying, this can help you avoid eye strain and headaches.
- Spend quality time outside. Remember that spending time outside is crucial for teenagers, not only for their eye health, but also for their mental health, as they engage in real life rather than virtual life. There are many great activities to do outside, especially during spring or summer.
- Don’t bring the phone too close to your face. Even though everyone does this unconsciously, when you notice that your phone is too close to your face and eyes, you should remind yourself to move it away from your eyes.
Why is it important to pay attention to this on time?
Making sure teenagers have some limits regarding screen use and taking such small steps towards a healthier lifestyle is crucial during this period because this is the time when most long-term habits are formed.
Digital devices are quickly becoming a major part of our daily lives, and we need to establish some rules to follow because if we don’t do it, we’re going to experience rapid health changes. Teenagers are especially proud because they use such devices way too much, and because they’re prone to experiencing different health issues later on. Take some time, do these simple things until it’s too late, protect your health, and establish a healthier lifestyle, as you’ll be much prouder later on and will avoid more serious health issues.
Also read:
How Good Friends Help Teenage Mental Health
How to Help My Teen Avoid Toxic Friends
Image credit: Pexels,RDNE Stock project
