In our everyday lives, whether at home or in the office, we are exposed to radiation! It exists around us all the time. X-rays and photocopying machines are not the only radiation emitters, as many people believe. And since we use either of these two machines too infrequently, any radiation we get from it is really negligible. But what exactly is radiation, and why should we be wary of it?
Radiation (or radiant energy) is one of the 6 forms of energy (the others being sound, electrical, chemical, mechanical, and nuclear) that has the qualities of both waves and particles. It passes through the body, usually without leaving a trace. But over-exposure to radiation can affect body tissues, causing molecular damage, which may lead to cancer. In some cases, when the genetic material of cells in the sex organ is affected, birth imperfections in the children of exposed individuals may result.
But what’s more frightening is the fact that anything electronic emits radiation. Yes, we get radiation from our television sets, microwave ovens, mobile phones, and all the other conveniences introduced to us by modern technology. You are probably hoping that it won’t be mentioned here – our computers – but since they work because of electronics, they are certainly this generation’s predominant source of radiation. According to medical studies, over-exposure to radiation emitted by our computer screens damages our cells. And when this happens, health problems arise, though some are not evident. When you experience the inability to concentrate, slowness in movements, irritability, and fatigue, chances are your body is over-exposed to computers.
Can we get away from it all, especially since computers are almost everywhere? Obviously not. And what about all our other electronic conveniences; should we discard them and alter the way we live altogether? Again, the answer is no. But we can manage radiation levels by giving our bodies a breather.
To give your body a break from radiation, medical experts provide the following helpful suggestions:
– Install radiation filters on your computer screens. These filters will protect you from direct contact with the computer radiation.
– Move away from the screen after about a couple of hours of exposure to computer. Take a walk around another area. Drink a glass of water to re-energize your cells; let them re-generate.
– Place fresh plants near your computer; they can help absorb the radiation.
– Switch to a laptop computer with an LCD screen.
– Use headsets for your mobile phone.
– Keep computers, televisions, and refrigerators out of your bedroom.
– Don’t position your bed near an air conditioner or radiator.
– Electrical clocks, clock radios, and phones should not be on your bedside table.
– Check if you have a circuit box in your bedroom, or in other areas where you spend large amount of time.
– Unplug appliances when not in use.
– Install a device to cut off current when the circuits are not in use.
– Wear clothes that are made of natural fibers, like cotton.
– As much as possible, avoid using microwave ovens.
– Limit the use of hair dryers.
– Use handheld razors, instead of electric ones, when shaving.
– Avoid synthetic bedding.
– Get ample amounts of natural light.
Be kind to your body. When you feel tired and exhausted, stop for a while and rest. Do not suppose that your discomfort is a natural consequence of working. In all likelihood, your body is beginning to feel the effect of being over-exposed to radiation. To have a good quality of life, know your body’s limits. Check your workload, and take adequate precautions.
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