TOO HOT TO HANDLE?
It is now believed that extremely low frequency (ELF) magnetic fields, such as those emitted by traditional (non-flat screen) computer monitors, as well as laptops with unearthed power sources (such as their batteries), have biological effects that may have the potential to affect the growth of developing tissue, contribute to miscarriage or birth defects, promote the growth of cancer cells, interfere with the cell processes and functions and alter neurological functions.
Illustration: Jayachandran / Mint
Although there is no confirmation of ELF radiation from a laptop causing cancer, some scientists suspect that it impairs the ability of T-lymphocytes (the infection-fighting cells of the immune system) to combat cancer.
“There is no scientific proof that these biological effects will happen to people using a laptop in everyday situations, but there is always (a) risk for changes at the cellular level,” says Shyam Aggarwal, head of department, medical oncology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi.
Remedy: “Stay an arm’s length away from your screen (30 inches or 75cm). If this makes viewing the monitor more difficult, try increasing (the) text size. Also, stay 4ft away from the sides and back of monitors, since fields can be stronger there—this reduces EMF (electromagnetic field) exposure,” says Dr Aggarwal.
Another caution: Consider special precautions if you are pregnant or trying to conceive. Limit the time you spend in front of a computer. “And as far as possible, keep the laptop not on your lap,” says Dr Aggarwal.
Also Read Are your eyes in digital danger?
ALTERED SENSATIONS
“With a laptop, hands don’t get enough support to rest on while working,” says Dr Sharma. As a result, excessive typing can cause the wrist to press against the edge of the laptop, which makes repetitive stress injury (RSI) to the median nerve much more likely, leading to carpal tunnel syndrome.
“This condition results in pain and tingling in the fingers of the hand,” says Dr Sharma. Dr Vaishya says it also causes numbness, pain and loss of strength in the hand, difficulty in holding (objects) and performing other tasks requiring fine motor skills (such as sewing or writing). “One may also feel altered sensations in the hand,” he adds.
Remedy: Correct hand position while typing is important. Fingers should be in a straight line with the forearm. Wrists should not bend to the side. Dr Vaishya also suggests keeping arms and hands warm.
TROUBLE IN SIGHT