Online Services and Health and Safety

Online Services

and Health

and Safety

Q1) Identify the main health issues.

   a -  Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) :)

 Any condition that causes swelling or a change in position of the tissue within the carpal tunnel can squeeze and irritate the median nerve. Irritation of the median nerve in this manner causes tingling and numbness of the thumb, index, and the middle fingers -- a condition known as "carpal tunnel 

syndrome."

Symptoms :)

People with carpal tunnel syndrome initially feel numbness and tingling of the hand in the distribution of the median nerve (the thumb, index, middle, and part of the fourth fingers). These sensations are often more pronounced at night and can awaken people from sleep. The reason symptoms are worse at night may be related to the flexed-wrist sleeping position and/or fluid accumulating around the wrist and hand while lying flat. Carpal tunnel syndrome may be a temporary condition that completely resolves or it can persist and progress.

As the disease progresses, patients can develop a burning sensation, and/or cramping and weakness of the hand. Decreased grip strength can lead to frequent dropping of objects from the hand. Occasionally, sharp shooting pains can be felt in the forearm. Chronic carpal tunnel syndrome can also lead to wasting (atrophy) of the hand muscles, particularly those near the base of the thumb in the palm of the hand.

Treatment :)

Initial treatment usually includes rest, immobilization of the wrist in a splint, and occasionally ice application. Those whose occupations are aggravating the symptoms should modify their activities. For example, computer keyboards and chair height may need to be adjusted to optimize comfort. These measures, as well as periodic resting and range of motion stretching exercise of the wrists can actually prevent the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome that are caused by repetitive overuse. Underlying conditions or diseases are treated individually. Fractures can require orthopedic management. Obese individuals will be advised regarding weight reduction. Rheumatoid disease is treated with measures directed against the underlying arthritis. Wrist swelling that can be associated with pregnancy resolves in time after delivery of the baby.

Several types of medications have been used in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) has been reported to relieve some symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, although it is not known how this medication works. No steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also be helpful in decreasing inflammation and reducing pain. Side effects include gastrointestinal upset and even ulceration of the stomach. These medications should be taken with food, and abdominal symptoms should be reported to the doctor. Corticosteroids can be given by mouth or injected directly into the involved wrist joint. They can bring rapid relief of the persistent symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Side effects of these medications, when given in short courses, for carpal tunnel syndrome are minimal. However, corticosteroids can aggravate diabetes and should be avoided in the presence of infections.

Most patients with carpal tunnel syndrome improve with conservative measures and medications. Occasionally, chronic pressure on the median nerve can result in persistent numbness and weakness. In order to avoid serious and permanent nerve and muscle consequences of carpal tunnel syndrome, surgical treatment is considered. Surgery involves severing the band of tissue around the wrist to reduce pressure on the median nerve. This surgical procedure is called "carpal tunnel release." It can now be performed with a small diameter viewing tube, called an arthroscope, or by open wrist procedure. After carpal tunnel release, patients often undergo exercise rehabilitation. Though it is uncommon, symptoms can recur.

   b-   Computer vision syndrome (CVS) :)

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is strain on the eyes that happens when you use a computer for prolonged periods of time. Anyone who has spent a few hours on the computer has probably felt some of the effects of prolonged use of the computer or other digital technology. It is temporary, and usually goes away on its own – however, the discomfort it causes can be minimized by following a few simple practices.

Symptoms :)

Your eye care professional can diagnose computer vision syndrome through an eye exam, with special attention paid to how the eye works and responds at computer distance.

You probably have experienced at least one of the common symptoms of computer vision syndrome which include:

• Eyestrain
• Headaches
• Blurred vision
• Dry eyes
• Neck and shoulder pain

These symptoms may be caused by other factors such as uncorrected vision needs, glare, poor lighting, improper posture, etc.

Treatment :)

With these simple practices, you can reduce, or even prevent the effects of computer vision syndrome:

• Make sure the lighting in the room is comfortable on the eyes, and prevents you from staring into glare on the computer screen
• Position the computer screen so that your head is in a naturally comfortable position while working
• Take breaks. A few minutes away from the computer can go a long way when it comes to your eyes. Think of it similarly to the way you take stretch breaks for your arms and back.
• Make sure your seat is comfortable. A comfortable chair with support for your neck and back will help you avoid neck and shoulder strain commonly associated with computer vision syndrome.

   c-    Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) :)

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) consist of minor physical disabilities. This term is used to describe a variety of conditions that affect the muscles, bones, and joints. The severity of the MSD can vary. Pain and discomfort may interfere with everyday activities. MSDs are extremely common, and your risk increases with age. Early diagnosis is the key to ease pain while potentially decreasing further bodily damage.

• Types of MSDs

MSDs can affect all major areas of the body, including the:

         ·         neck

         ·         shoulders

         ·         wrists

         ·         back (upper and lower)

         ·         hips

         ·         legs

         ·         knees

         ·         feet 

Symptoms :)

Symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders can hamper everyday tasks, such as walking. You may notice you have limited range of motion, as well as difficulties accomplishing your favorite activities. Call your doctor if you experience:

         ·         recurrent pain

         ·         stiff, painful joints

         ·         swelling

         ·         dull aches

Treatment :)

Treating musculoskeletal disorders depends on the severity of your condition. Occasional pain may be addressed with exercises as well as over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Never take these medicines without a doctor’s approval.

Advanced disorders may require different treatment approaches. Physical therapy and occupational therapy can help you learn techniques to manage pain and discomfort during everyday activities. Prescription medications may also be required to help reduce inflammation and pain.

Q2) Identify the main safety issues.

The Chair :)

Since almost all the time spent in front of a computer is at a desk, the chair is all-important. It’s crucial to pick one out with proper support for both the upper and lower back. Chung says this may include a high-backed chair or a towel or pillow as low back support. He also points to the 90-degree angle rule—that your child’s hips, thighs, ankles and feet should be approximately at this degree. For shorter students whose feet don’t reach the ground put a block or stool under their feet to give better support. But pay attention to height; if when sitting in the chair, your child’s eyes aren’t lined up with the upper part of the computer screen, the chair may simply be too large for them.

Mouse and Keyboard :)

Let’s look at the other crucial components of the computer. Keyboards should be at elbow height, leaving your child’s arms close to his or her body instead of being outstretched. Chung praises adjustable keyboards that attach to the bottom of a desk and can therefore by customized. Regular sized keyboards may be too large for your child, forcing him or her to angle their wrists when typing, another thing Chung says to watch for. They also make smaller mice for computers, or track ball types, which Chung says can be better for children’s limited motor skills. He recommends parents move the keyboard or mouse on the workspace to a comfortable place, avoiding outstretched arms.

Give Me a Break :)

Chung recommends breaks every 20-30 minutes, not just to allow the body to stretch, but also to give the eyes a rest. Anyone who has spent hours in front of a computer knows that the screen can wreak havoc on your eyes, causing strained, tired eyes or even headaches. 3-5 minute breaks should be sufficient.