Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Shabnam Sengupta
Quick Take
A video on social media claims that using mobile phones affects eyesight. We fact-checked and found the claim to be Half True.
The Claim
A video on Facebook shows a child with one eye covered by a bandage. Two male voices engage in a conversation where one explains to the other the reason for the bandage. The explanation claims that the child’s excessive mobile phone use has affected his peripheral vision and altered his eyesight. Furthermore, they suggest that covering the eye with a bandage will restore normal vision.
The claimed video comes with a statement ‘Keep your kids away from mobile 📲 phones. Don’t know whether this is authentic reason for this problem or not. But we should Keep mobile away from kids as much as possible’.
We have attached a screenshot of the video below:
Fact Check
Can cell phones cause vision problems?
It seems so. The available evidence shows that cell phones can lead to vision problems. Although it is better to limit children’s excessive use of mobile phones, there is insufficient information available regarding the specific diagnosis of the child and the reason for suggesting an eye patch in the claimed video. Also, no evidence confirms the claim that excessive screen time directly alters peripheral vision due to mobile phone use, to the extent of needing a bandage for recovery.
We reached out to Dr Aditya Sethi Ophthalmologist at Arunodaya Deseret Eye Hospital (ADEH) at Gurgaon, Haryana for clarification. He explains, “There is a growing association between increased mobile device usage and the emergence of acute onset esotropia in children. Prolonged screen time may lead to eye strain, fatigue, and changes in focusing, potentially impacting eye alignment. Also, the specific reason for the bandage in the viral video cannot be conclusively determined without additional context. It is crucial to approach such content with caution and seek credible information. My understanding is the bandage may be part of a treatment plan, to break fusion and hope to restore alignment to treat related to the discussed eye condition. Still, a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified ophthalmologist is necessary for accurate understanding. The video alone is insufficient to determine the credibility of the treatment shown. It is not a verified method of treatment yet and has no documented success rates yet. It may be a practical approach to break or rest fusion. Medications and surgical interventions have been described for the treatment in this dispute. Still, It is advisable to consult a qualified ophthalmologist for a thorough examination and diagnosis before considering any course of treatment. Professional guidance ensures an accurate understanding of the underlying causes and the development of an appropriate and effective treatment plan tailored to the individual child’s needs.”
Additionally, we have contacted Daily Wattan News to gain a better understanding of this case and will provide updates on the story as soon as we receive any response.
How do cell phones cause vision problems?
Current evidence suggests that using mobile phones for longer duration can have an impact on vision in many ways. Staring at a screen for prolonged periods can cause digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. It happens when your eyes get tired and uncomfortable from looking at screens like computers, phones, or tablets for too long. It can cause things like eye strain, headaches, blurry vision, and dry eyes. Sitting in the same position for a long time and not taking breaks can make it worse. Adjusting how you sit, taking breaks, and giving your eyes rest can help.
Besides this, mobile phones emit blue light, which can interfere with the sleep-wake cycle and potentially contribute to eye strain and retinal damage if exposure is prolonged.
We also found a study that suggests a link between increased screen time, especially in children, and the development or progression of myopia (nearsightedness). Another study shows that people tend to blink less frequently when using mobile devices. This can cause dry and irritated eyes.
In addition to these issues, evidence also shows that holding a phone at an incorrect distance or angle can lead to neck and shoulder strain, which can cause discomfort.
Can we prevent vision problems due to mobile phone use?
It seems so. Preventing vision problems caused by excessive mobile phone use is possible by adopting certain practices. Taking breaks and limiting screen time for extended durations are effective preventive measures. Adhering to the 20-20-20 rule, which suggests looking away from the screen every 20 minutes and focusing on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, can significantly benefit eye health. Moreover, cultivating good eye care habits is crucial rather than considering extreme measures, such as using a bandage, to restore vision affected by excessive screen use.
Apart from eyes, we have also debunked the claim that Cell Phones increase the Risk of Brain Tumors by 40%.
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