Office work may not require heavy physical labor, but it often comes with hidden health risks. What seems like minor discomfort—such as neck pain, dry eyes, or fatigue—can develop into chronic health problems if left unchecked. Here are seven common workplace-related health conditions and simple daily tips to prevent them.

         1.Office Syndrome  Chronic Neck, Shoulder, and Back Pain
Sitting at a desk or staring at a phone for long hours can strain muscles, leading to pain that sometimes radiates to the head. Prevention includes proper workstation setup, taking breaks every hour, and regular stretching. Severe or persistent pain should be evaluated by a doctor.

         2.Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Frequent typing and mouse use can compress nerves in the wrist, causing numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingersoften worse at night. To manage, keep wrists straight, use a wrist splint during sleep, and take breaks. If symptoms worsen, medical treatment may be needed.

         3.Tendonitis and Trigger Finger
Repetitive hand and finger movements may inflame tendons, causing stiffness or pain. Rest, cold compresses, temporary splints, and gentle stretching help. Chronic pain may require injections or minor surgery.

         4.Degenerative Spine and Herniated Disc
Prolonged sitting, poor lifting posture, or weak core muscles can lead to back or neck pain, sometimes radiating down the arms or legs. Prevention includes strengthening core muscles, limiting prolonged sitting, and maintaining a healthy weight. Numbness, weakness, or bladder/bowel issues require urgent medical care.

         5.Dry Eyes and Digital Eye Strain
Staring at screens reduces blinking, leading to dry, irritated eyes and headaches. The 20-20-20 rule looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes helps. Adjust lighting, enlarge screen text, and consult an eye doctor if symptoms persist.

         6.Gastritis and Acid Reflux
Skipping meals, eating quickly, or eating late at night can cause indigestion and heartburn. To prevent flare-ups: eat on schedule, chew slowly, avoid lying down right after meals, and limit coffee, alcohol, and fatty foods. Severe symptoms, such as vomiting blood, require medical attention.

         7.Burnout Syndrome
Not only the body but also the mind can become exhausted from overwork. Symptoms include fatigue, insomnia, poor focus, and lack of motivation. Prevention strategies include setting work boundaries, practicing relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and engaging in enjoyable hobbies.

     The Bottom Line
Work itself isn’t the only cause of declining health neglecting self-care is. Small daily actions, like taking eye breaks, stretching, and scheduling downtime, can significantly improve long-term health and productivity.

 

Source:

www.thaihealth.or.th