What happens if you play VR all day?
It is essential to be aware of the potential health risks and take necessary precautions. If you suffer from any medical conditions or are otherwise at risk, it would be wise to avoid using VR for an extended period.
1. Eye Strain – Short Term Issues
Staring at a virtual reality headset for extended periods of time can cause eye strain, similar to what happens when looking at TV or computer screens for too long. However, this can be avoided with regular breaks and by adjusting focus settings on the VR headset accordingly.
2. Disorientation – Long Term Issues
Some users of VR for extended periods report feelings of disorientation and dizziness due to the brain being bombarded with information it’s not used to. This is especially common in games that involve flying, high-speed movement, heights or falling.
3. Dissociative States – Long Term Effects
Studies have discovered that playing VR may lead to feelings of dissociation, which may alter how you think and act. Symptoms may include feeling as if you’re another person or being detached from your body, among other things.
4. Distracting – Longer Issues
Playing VR can also distract you from work or other tasks that require your focus, which may be beneficial if you’re feeling bored or just want to relax.
5. Muscle soreness – Long Term Issues
While playing VR can be enjoyable and relaxing, it also puts a strain on your muscles due to all of the head movement. So it’s essential that you exercise regularly when using VR.
6. Nausea – Long Term Issues
Feeling nauseous while playing VR can be an issue, particularly if the game is fast-paced. This could indicate that your vestibular system (inner ear) and visual system are out of sync; thus, taking a break from gaming and sitting down until symptoms pass is recommended.
7. Long-Term Hearing Damage
Listening to loud music and other sounds can have detrimental effects on the ears, according to Oculus Rift. This could cause tinnitus or permanent harm which is why many headsets feature high-volume audio controls.
8. Socializing – Long Term Aspects
Many VR users who spend a lot of time playing may become more social and interact with others. This can be especially helpful for shy or introverted individuals as it helps them build friendships with people who share their interests.
9. Mental Health – Long Term Issues
Some individuals may struggle with long-term mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Before trying virtual reality (VR), it’s wise to speak with a healthcare professional about these concerns.
10. Eating a nutritious diet and staying physically active are also recommended when playing VR. Doing so can help maintain your weight, decreasing the likelihood of developing health complications from VR use.
