Computer Allergies

April 6 -- Do you have a headache at work? It might not be stress.

A Stockholm University study found that a flame retardant used in most computer monitors can trigger allergic reactions.

After testing 18 popular monitors, researchers found that 10 emitted levels of the allergen TPP that were high enough to cause headaches, itchy skin and nasal congestion.

“TPP escapes from plastic monitor moldings when they heat up,” says Conny Ostman, the study author.

The allergen burns off over time, so stick with older monitors, or keep new monitors turned on at night so they can burn off excess TPP when you’re not there.

Drugs and Diving Don’t Mix

Don’t take seasickness pills right before you go scuba diving.

According to a study from the University of Pittsburgh medical center, taking motion-sickness pills up to six hours before diving could be a dangerous mistake.

“We found that compared with the placebo, Dramamine caused drowsiness and impaired reaction times, which could lead to potentially serious errors while diving,” says Dr. Kevin O’Toole, the study author.

Safer alternatives include products made with ginger, or wristbands designed to stimulate the acupressure points that block nausea.

What Your Hair Says About Your Health

Researchers in Finland compared men who kept their hair into middle age with those who started to go bald before age 30.

They found that losing your hair is a sign that you’re also at significantly greater risk of insulin-resistance-related illnesses like hypertension, atherosclerosis, coronary-artery disease, obesity, and diabetes.

“You can counteract some of that extra risk by keeping your weight down, exercising, eating healthy foods, and avoiding cigarettes,” says Dr. Sirkka Keinnen-Kuikaanneimi, the study author.

It won’t help your hair, but it will decrease your risk of developing more serious problems.

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