Protect Yourself While Gaming

Tips to avoid eye strain and Proper sitting tipsReduce risk by ensuring that: The light source is
while playing gamesangled from the side. The primary light source
Gaming means long hours at the computer. Selfmust not shine on the face or directly on the
absorbent and an obsessive hobby, incorrectscreen. Lighting should have a 10:3 ratio screen
habits and posture are detrimental to health.characters should be 10X brighter than
Problems like musculoskeletal injuries, eyestrain,background and room lights should be 3X the
and disabilities of the hands and wrist like, RSI orscreen brightness. Use a shaded copy lamp to
Repetitive Strain Injury are common.avoid screen reflections. Reflections and glare are
Bad posture causes: pain, stiffness of joints,eliminated by using an antiglare screen and by
weakness, bad circulation, as well as swelling.tilting the monitor slightly. The monitor must be
Ensure that: The desk is designed especially forcentered so that neither the body nor neck is
computers. While seated, the feet are flat on thetwisted when viewing the screen. The screen is
floor; arms and thighs are parallel to the ground;of good quality. The text should be sharp and nor
back is straight; and the arms don't have todistorted. Change the resolution to a comfortable
stretch out to reach the keyboard or mouse. Thefont size. The monitor is a suitable distance away.
keyboard height is such that the elbows areThe screen is at eye level or lower. Brightness
parallel to the ground and level with the keyboard.and contrast are reduced to suitable levels.
An ergonomic keyboard is recommended. TheIt is important to: Break concentration by looking
spine maintains its 'S' curve when seated, so useaway from the monitor at far away objects at
an ergonomic chair and if required, a footstool.least once every 15-20 minutes. Pause in between
The mouse is placed at the same height as theto blink your eyes rapidly. This will lubricate the
keyboard. Use your whole arm not just the wristeyes and prevent dryness. Schedule regular eye
when operating the mouse. Typing is done withchecks. Monitor blurred vision, headaches, red
light fingers. The wrists should be flat and noteyes, or watering eyes. Splash water and wash
angled to the left or right. To avoid nerveyour eyes at least 3-4 times a day.
compression the elbow must not be angled moreTips: It is advisable to take frequent breaks,
than 90 degrees. The arms are raised off theeither do stretches or take a short walk once
keyboard as often as possible. Tasks areevery hour for 10-15 minutes. Use a well
alternated so that you are not typing or clickingventilated room. Reduce emission in laser printers,
the mouse continuously.photocopiers, and scanners.
Another factor is eye strain. Extended computerProblems can be eliminated and the risk reduced
use can cause: blurred vision, focusing difficulties,by inculcating good posture and working habits.
as well as headaches.