The widespread addiction to gadgets is causing alarm among specialists of various fields: educators, psychologists, neurologists, and now also ENT doctors. The harmful effects of smartphones and tablets on the respiratory organs are not often discussed as much as, say, the consequences for the brain and nervous system. Nevertheless, it is important to be aware of them so that you do not have to frantically search for lifesaving drops and sprays in the pharmacy later.
ENT doctor Lyudmila Dzhaparidze revealed the main nuances of the relationship between nasal congestion and gadget addiction.
Breathe through your nose!
“There is currently no direct evidence that a tablet can cause a runny nose, but there are factors that can enhance the feeling of nasal congestion. The fact is that when a child or adult sits with their phone for a long time, their head tends to lean forward, and their mouth is slightly open. This is how oral breathing develops. Frequent use of gadgets in this position can lead to chronic nasal congestion,” warns the doctor. This is not a disease, of course, but ultimately the habit negatively affects the quality of life, depriving us of normal breathing.
A breeding ground for dust and infections
The second danger is that the surfaces of gadgets, if not cleaned at least once a day, accumulate micro-particles of dust and infections. These, in turn, enter the nasal passages or nasopharynx and can also dry out the mucous membranes and provoke coughing.
The bedtime factor
“If a smartphone is regularly taken to bed before sleep, late-night cartoons and social media interfere with falling asleep. Sleep becomes superficial, the mouth opens more often, and breathing becomes incorrect. Physiologically, we should breathe only through the nose, as the air passing through the nasal passages is moistened and warmed. If you breathe through your mouth, you will feel nasal congestion in the morning,” continues Lyudmila Dzhaparidze.
Of course, it makes no sense to blame the smartphone for breathing problems. The issue is more about a lack of self-control and the habit of sitting still. “Therefore, it is necessary to correct your posture, remember to ventilate the room, and put away gadgets an hour before sleep,” concludes the ENT specialist.
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