Mobile phones have become indispensable in daily life, but excessive use may be detrimental to health, according to TV doctor Amir Khan. Known for his appearances on ITV’s Good Morning Britain and Lorraine, Dr Khan has identified five science-backed effects of prolonged phone use that could impact wellbeing.
In a TikTok video, he explained that while phones serve many functions and act as a lifeline for many, constant scrolling affects the body in several ways.
Firstly, prolonged screen time can cause eye strain, a condition sometimes referred to as ‘computer vision syndrome’. Dr Khan described how staring at screens reduces the blink rate by up to 60%, leading to dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, and fatigue. He recommends taking breaks every 20 minutes and spending time outdoors, where varying focal distances can help relax the eyes.
READ MORE: Gloucestershire Police Seeks Witnesses Following Multiple Recent Incidents
READ MORE: Tourist Tax Decried as ‘Hammer Blow’ by Renowned Cotswolds B&B Owner
Secondly, “tech neck” results from tilting the head forward to view the phone screen. Dr Khan noted that a 60-degree tilt exerts a load equivalent to carrying a seven-year-old child on the neck, potentially causing muscle strain and altering spinal curvature if sustained. Regular breaks and neck exercises can help alleviate this issue.
Thirdly, phone use before bedtime can disrupt sleep. The blue light emitted suppresses melatonin, the hormone that signals sleep onset, which may delay falling asleep and reduce restorative deep sleep. He suggests avoiding phone use for at least 30 minutes before bed and keeping devices out of the bedroom.
Fourth, high screen time has been linked in multiple studies to increased anxiety, depression, and decreased life satisfaction, particularly among teenagers and young adults. Continuous notifications keep the brain alert, hindering rest. Dr Khan emphasised the importance of real-life social interactions, recommending meeting friends in person rather than relying on phone communication.
Finally, excessive phone use contributes to sedentary behaviour, which is associated with greater risks of heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, even among those who exercise later. Dr Khan advised frequent movement throughout the day, highlighting that prolonged sitting is often compared to smoking in terms of health risks.
Dr Khan concluded by urging people to take breaks when scrolling to give their eyes, neck, and mind a rest, adding “Your future self will thank you.”