Health warnings for prolonged internet use and low humidity environments

Beware of Eye Damage from Prolonged Internet Use

With the rapid development of the information industry and modern office practices, computers have become ubiquitous, making people's lives faster, more convenient, and richer. However, this has also brought some problems. Experts warn that each internet session should not be too long, as prolonged internet use can easily damage the eyes.

Prolonged close-range work in front of a computer, due to excessive eye accommodation and the flickering caused by the changing screen, often leads to eye strain, dryness, itching, blurred vision, photophobia, tearing, and even color vision disorders—this is eye fatigue. The longer the working time, the more pronounced the eye fatigue. Eye fatigue is usually temporary and can be quickly relieved with rest. However, if fatigue persists, it can damage the eyes, causing conjunctivitis, glaucoma, myopia, and even premature cataracts. Prolonged internet use can also lead to psychological dependence and cause autonomic nervous system dysfunction. The stimulating nature of the internet and information can excite people and affect rest and sleep. Furthermore, prolonged internet use can lead to "over-inhibition," reducing the number of "excitation foci" outside the computer screen. Therefore, people who are addicted to online games may experience apathy or even numbness towards their surroundings, or suffer from autonomic nervous system dysfunction, exhibiting symptoms such as excessive sweating, irritability, and agitation.

Therefore, men should strengthen their health awareness and improve their self-regulation abilities. Each internet session should not be too long, and addiction to online games should be avoided. Internet use time should ideally be limited to 2-3 hours. Every hour or so, eyes should be taken off the computer screen for 5-10 minutes, either by closing them to rest, looking out the window, gently massaging the area around the eyes, or performing eye exercises to allow the eyes sufficient rest and adjustment. In addition, a balanced diet, including plenty of vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits, and sufficient sleep, are also beneficial for eye health.

Beware of Low Humidity Leading to Illness

Humidity refers to the water content of the air and the degree of dampness of objects. Environmental humidity is closely related to human health.

During cold and humid seasons, the incidence of various infectious diseases increases, with asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia showing a high prevalence. One reason for this is that low humidity and dry air weaken the respiratory system's resistance, making it easier to trigger or worsen illnesses. Another reason is that excessively low humidity not only accelerates the reproduction of pathogens such as influenza viruses and Gram-positive bacteria, but also allows these pathogens to spread with dust and particulate matter, leading to disease outbreaks. Furthermore, low humidity can easily cause symptoms such as dry throat and mouth, and dry, painful mouth and nose; in severe cases, it can lead to nosebleeds and chapped lips. Dry air also dehydrates epidermal cells, reduces sebum secretion, and accelerates keratinization, resulting in rough, wrinkled, and cracked skin.

Therefore, humidity is closely related to human health. Generally speaking, a relative humidity between 40% and 60% is considered ideal, providing the best health benefits. In daily life, a thermometer and hygrometer can be hung indoors to measure changes in air humidity. The general rule for humidity changes is that humidity is higher in spring and summer than in autumn and winter. To increase air humidity during the dry season, you can frequently sprinkle water on the floor, mop the floor with a damp mop, or hang damp towels indoors.

For patients suffering from pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, etc., a humid climate can accelerate their recovery. For example, coastal areas have higher humidity and lower levels of air pollutants, making this environment beneficial for the treatment and recovery from pneumonia, anemia, asthma, pharyngitis, rhinitis, neurasthenia, and other illnesses. Therefore, you can use an air humidifier to humidify the air and create a comfortable humidity environment.