Selfie Safety Cedars-Sinai Skip to content Close Select your preferred language English عربى 简体中文 繁體中文 فارسي עִברִית 日本語 한국어 Русский Español Tagalog Menu Close Call 1-800-CEDARS-1 toggle search form Close Share Email Print CS-Blog Cedars-Sinai Blog Selfie Safety Jun 18, 2019 Share Tweet Post Selfies seem like the perfect souvenir from a beautiful vista or a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Most selfie-related injuries are a result of distraction—people get so focused on taking the perfect shot that they ignore basic safety. Click To Tweet People take millions of them every day to post on social media. Most of the time the photos are simply a fun way to connect with friends and followers, but sometimes the pursuit of the perfect photo can end in death or injury. We talked to Cedars-Sinai doctors about the selfie deaths in the news and other selfie-related injuries. Preventable tragedies Selfies were linked to 259 fatalities between 2011 and 2017. The leading cause was drowning, followed by incidents involving transportation, such as taking a selfie near a moving train, according to a study by the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care. Researchers say the actual number may be much higher. It also doesn't account for and nonfatal injuries. Ever heard of selfie wrist? It's a real thing. Some officials have started adding "No Selfie Zone" signs in popular tourist areas that are especially risky. The US Forest Service has warned Lake Tahoe visitors to stop taking selfies with bears. Most selfie-related deaths and injuries are preventable. "Taking a selfie is about using cellphones and selfie sticks responsibly, which includes being aware of your surroundings," says Dr. Sam Torbati, co-chair of Emergency Medicine. Read: Don't Let Your Electric Scooter Ride End in the ER Selfie safety tips Most selfie-related injuries are a result of distraction—people get so focused on taking the perfect shot that they ignore basic safety. Practice these basics to prevent putting yourself or others in danger: Don't: Pose near a moving train or other vehicle Take selfies while crossing the street, driving, cycling, or boating Pose with wildlife, including marine life and animals at the zoo Include any weapon or explosive device in a selfie Attempt to capture a stunt with a selfie Do: Be aware of your surroundings Keep away from ledges, stairs, and drop-offs Stay behind railings and barriers Keep your eyes on your path, not your phone, while walking or hiking Use extra caution around pools and other bodies of water There’s nothing wrong with wanting to take a great photo, but it's not worth your health—or your life. If you do suffer a selfie-related injury, don't be too embarrassed to seek medical attention. Read: Should I Go to Urgent Care or the ER? Beyond selfie accidents Ever heard of selfie wrist? It's a real thing. This form of carpal tunnel syndrome can develop as a result of flexing the wrist to take selfies. It can cause pain and swelling, and any time there's inflammation there is a risk of it becoming a chronic issue, according to Dr. Natasha Trentacosta, an orthopaedic surgeon at the Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute. "It's similar to the type of repetitive strain injury we started to see as video games became popular," she explains. "We refer to that as Nintendo thumb or gamer's grip." Read: 8 Expert Tips to Avoid Getting Sick When You Travel Dr. Trentacosta suggests giving your arm a break from time to time, using a selfie stick or asking a friend to take the photo. If you are experiencing pain and swelling in your wrist, she recommends these home remedies: Rest, ice, and elevate your arm Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs Use a brace or splint Try natural anti-inflammatories, such as ginger or turmeric Apply CBD oils and creams Tags Prevention Safety Share Tweet Post Popular Categories Health + Wellness Science + Innovation Community Blog & Magazines catalyst Blog & Magazines Home CS-Blog Blog CS Magazine Cedars-Sinai Magazine discoveries magazine Discoveries Magazine Embracing our Community Embracing Our Community Blog & Magazines catalyst Blog & Magazines Home CS-Blog Blog Embracing our Community Embracing Our Community CS Magazine Cedars-Sinai Magazine discoveries magazine Discoveries Magazine Popular Topics Cancer Women's Health Heart Expert Advice Patient Stories Brain Make an Appointment Find a Doctor Schedule a Callback Call us 24 hours a day 1-800-CEDARS-1 Support Cedars-Sinai Make a Gift Volunteer Share Email Print Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility