Internet Related Health Problems

A lot of people use computers and the Internet on almost daily basis. However relatively few people think about the health problems that might occur when using this tool. Moreover, they also rarely think about the possibility of improving their life style and health by using the same tool.
When a computer user stops for a second, and think about the some the benefits and luxury that comes from using computers and the internet, they will probably feel extremely fortunate to live in such a great computer run era. However, if they stopped and looked at it from a different angle and asked themselves some questions, are we using computers properly? Is the excessive use of technology affecting our health? Are we using this technology to benefit our health? I believe that many of the answers would have a negative answer. So the main question is how can we use the computer without affecting our health?

Starting with examples of some of the minor or non serious health issues that might occur one of which is the Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), which is defined by the American Optometric Association (AOA) as “the complex of eye and vision problems related to near work, which are experienced during or related to computer use” (American Optometric Association, 2008) According to a survey done by the American Optometric Association shows that most of the health issues are vision related. However more attention lately have been given to avoidance of musculoskeletal disorders such as wrist problems, bursitis, muscle strains, tendon disorders, and tenosynovitis (e.g., trigger finger) among others. (American Optometric Association, 2008).
Moreover, There are more serious health issues that are directly linked with computers and one of which is the Computer Cyber World Addiction which is a major waste of time and money, according to the International Journal of Applied Psychoanalytic Studies, some people spend more than $500 a month on AOL chat rooms. Which is a proof of Internet addiction. (Suler, J , 2004) Another major health problem is the risk of getting electrocuted buy the electrical adaptor or any loose wire. A third health risk is that fact that by using internet the user will probably need a wireless router which transmits a lot of radio waves and being exposed to radio waves arguably cause some health problems including cancer.

The solution to these problems is quite simple. If we take the CVS for example, taking breaks and looking away from the screen every 45 minutes for at least 5 minutes could avoid it. The musculoskeletal disorders can be avoided be doing specific exercises for every muscle. Furthermore regarding the Internet addiction there are some websites that deals with the Internet addiction through an interactive virtual agent using Entertainment-Education paradigm. (Seung,A.J 2010) which basically means that the patient could create an avatar and go to a virtual world and meet other avatars “Doctors” for psychological help, Which is beneficial, due to the fact that the patient will not leave his comfort zone.

However, these solutions are not very convenient due to the fact that the CVC solution is ineffective for a person that cannot keep track on time. The same thing goes for the musculoskeletal disorders solution. Moreover, when it comes to the addiction problem there are some side affects to these types of therapies, basically it could increase the addiction of the person and worsen his state due to the fact that it is a very new therapy, and it will make them use the computer even more.

A Scene That Harkens a Chilhood Memory

I never thought that it’ll affect me the way it did, but the first video game console I have ever had was a gift from my father. Since then a passion started in me, the passion of video games.


That passion started to grow and become more of a career path instead of a hobby, this path is to have my own video game studio here in the united states, and to team up with the most amazing companies such as EA, SONY, Microsoft etc.


Every time I play a video game or I think of a video game concept or idea I always think that this passion, dream would have not appeared if it wasn’t for my father may he rest in piece.




Now, I can proudly say that I’m halfway through my dream because I am considered a video game expert and I’ve had my own show about video games on TV back at home.

Greetings

Hello All,

This is Moe from your class...