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NEW YORK, Jul 29, 2003 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- Men who wear ties could be more at risk of developing glaucoma, the potentially blinding eye condition, reports the British Journal of Oncology.
Researchers said that ties worn too tightly increase blood pressure inside the eye in the space of a few minutes.
"Raised blood pressure inside the eye is the most important known risk factor for glaucoma," Dr. Robert Ritch of the Glaucoma Service at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, told the London Telegraph.
The scientists believe the effect may be caused by constricting the jugular vein, which raises blood pressure in the eye.
Ritch also said that wearing a tie during an eye test could lead to a falsely high reading of intraocular pressure or even a diagnosis of glaucoma itself.
"A tight tie can be considered a risk factor in men who prefer to wear tight ties, men with thick necks, and white-collar professionals," he said.
Copyright 2003 by United Press International.
