Laptop computers have become very popular due to the ease in using them. But now with more people using them, health hazards are also being identified. Laptops with wifi are common today. They generate electromagnetic radiation more than ordinary laptops. This can cause sexual impotence if one puts it on the lap for long. Most of the youngsters put laptops on their laps while doing work or watching movies. The heat generated over the scrotal region reduce sperm production resulting into male infertility. Some people tend to put a pillow between lap and laptop but this cannot help. Rather the laptop fan starts working due to overheating thus generating hot air which in turn generates more heat over the lap. The continuous use of fingers and hands over the keyboard can also lead to cramps in the fingers and hands and even induce arthritis. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be induced where the median nerve gets entrapped at the wrist leading to severe burning pain in the hands and fingers. Since one would often bend the neck or stretch it out while using a laptop, the neck is strained causing pain. In middle-aged or elderly persons, cervical spondylosis is precipitated and aggravated. Eyes are strained with laptops as much as with desktops. Being in front of a computer screen for long time, strains the eyes causing eye pain. Power of accommodation of eyes is impaired resulting in deranged far vision.These hazards can be avoided and one can remain healthy while using laptops. One should try to put the laptop on a surface if it has to be used for a long time. The surface should be at such a level that does not require bending the neck. Adjustment of posture should also be such that the fingers and hands remain supported below or do not have to reach far while working. Regular exercise of the wrists, hands and neck helps to maintain their flexibility and prevents painful cramps. The screen should not be too bright and there should be no glare of light falling over it. One should try to take a pause for at least 15-30 minutes after working on laptop computer for about 1 to 2 hours. During this pause eyes can be closed and covered with both hands to provide relaxation. If possible, an individual can also go out and look far in open space to maintain the far looking power of the eye. Youngsters should be encouraged to play outdoor group games instead of being on laptops for long hours. Specialist internal medicine-Ruhengeri Hospital
