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. [Read Full Article]
