
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: WEDNESDAY, July 11, 1990                   TAG: 9007110172
SECTION: EXTRA                    PAGE: 2   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: SOUTHFIELD, MICH.                                LENGTH: Short

NECKTIES TIED TOO TIGHTLY CAN IMPAIR VISION, AUTHOR SAYS

Dapper dressing may help you get ahead, but a necktie tied too tightly can make your head swim and blur vision, says the author of a book on improving health habits.

Viselike ties can constrict blood flow to the brain and sensory organs, says Dr. Don R. Powell of the American Institute for Preventive Medicine.

He cited 1989 research at Cornell University for the necktie tip, one of 365 suggestions in his book, "A Year of Health Hints."

"It can be a problem for people who have to use their eyes in an important way," Powell said Monday, noting that computer operators, pilots and surgeons depend on clear vision.

Powell suggested buying shirts a half-size bigger in the neck, leaving the top button undone, tying knots loosely and loosening the tie throughout the day.

He also said "casual days" at work, when a tie isn't necessary, would help alleviate the problem and boost morale. He said the institute has "casual Mondays" and "casual weeks," and is discussing "casual summers."

by CNB