How to avoid negative effects of excessive screen time now that almost everything is done online

Because a lot of our activities are done online now, it has become harder and harder to follow the recommended screen time, which is actually only three hours says Dr. Ramon Basa, Occupational and Family medicine Specialist at Asian Hospital and Medical Center. 

In an episode of PinoyMD, Dr. Basa said too much screen time can cause Computer Vision Syndrome or Digital Eye Strain.

Some of the symptoms or effects include blurring of vision, dry eyes, headache, and having a double vision.

Dr. Basa said gadgets emit blue light which is harmful to the retina.

According to Dr. Basa, excessive screen time also causes Gray Matter Atrophy or shrinking of one part of a person's brain.

Some of the effects include brain fog, memory problems, and hard time in concentration.

To avoid having excessive screen time, the report said one should make sure to use their gadget in a place where there is light.

Another is they can also adjust the brightness of their gadget.

While wearing blue light glasses has been a trend these days, Dr. Basa said it has not yet been endorsed by health authorities.

"Hindi pa napapatunayang epektibo ang blue light glasses na talagang may positive effect," Dr. Basa said.

However, he said studies are on the way.

According to the episode, people should make sure to keep 20 inches away from their mobile phones during use, and 20 to 40 inches away from computer screens depending on how big the screen is.

Another tip is to rest the eyes every 10 mins in every one hour of screen time and have a proper posture and comfortable sitting position when working. — Jannielyn Ann Bigtas/LA, GMA News