Digital technology use linked to childhood addiction risks and eye strain

Medical experts are warning about the growing health risks associated with increased screen time among children and adults. Pediatricians from Baťa Hospital note that digital technology dependence can begin as early as toddlerhood. While not always a clinical addiction in very young children, the habit of using devices for calming or during meals can negatively impact sleep, concentration, behavior, and social relationships.

Dr. Lucie Procházková emphasizes that the impact on daily life is a more critical metric than the mere number of hours spent on screens. Excessive use is linked to irritability, fatigue, and anxiety, particularly when social media fosters negative self-comparison.

Simultaneously, prolonged exposure to digital displays is causing physical eye issues. Dr. Ivo Ďurkovič highlights the prevalence of digital eye strain syndrome, characterized by burning, dryness, tearing, blurred vision, and headaches. This occurs because individuals tend to blink less frequently when focusing on screens, which destabilizes the tear film and leads to ocular dryness.