There is a handful of vision and eye health fallacies out there that can mislead and harm us. Of all the five senses, if we give up one, eyesight would be the last to go. We have only one set of eyes. We must subscribe to schools of thought backed with scientific data. We must separate fact from fiction concerning our vision and eye care. Here are seven eye care and vision myths debunked. In this way, accurate information is there to guide and educate us.
Myth 1: Eating carrots improves eyesight
False. Carrots are abundant in Vitamin A that is essential for vision, but many foods are too. However, eating an entire bushel of carrots can never improve eyesight. On the other hand, a balanced diet with or without carrots can provide the beneficial Vitamin A required for good vision.
Myth 2: Wetting drops can cure dry eyes
Dry eyes disease is caused by insufficient tears production by the tear gland. Common causes are eye surgery, aging, allergies, or air travel. Using wetting or lubricant drops can alleviate the pain for a few minutes, but it will not solve the underlying symptoms. Eysuvis is a prescription eye drop that specializes in dry eye flares and inflammation. In addition, it treats redness and ocular discomfort brought by dry eyes.
Myth 3: Reading in dim light can weaken the eyes
Reading in dim lighting can not weaken eyesight. However, it can cause strain and eye fatigue. The optimum position for reading is the light shining directly onto the page. An opaque desk lamp pointed directly at the material is an ideal reading lighting.
Myth 4: Kids outgrow crossed or misaligned eyes
False. Children do not outgrow crossed and “lazy” eyes. An opthalmologist can address conditions like these. Early detection is the rectification of misaligned eyes with treatments that include corrective glasses, eye drops, or surgery.
Myth 5: People with impaired vision must veer away from reading the fine print
It has been a common myth that people who wear glasses will tire their eyes out by reading the fine print. On the contrary, the eyes are a very intelligent muscle. They are not “worn out” by using them when reading intricate details.
Myth 6: Using computers or devices can damage the eyes
False. Working on computers or visual display terminals (VDT) will not weaken the eyes. However, looking at VDT for a long time can cause eye strain or fatigue. Additionally, reduced blinking can lead to dry eyes. Conduct the 20-20-20 exercise when using VDT or drop artificial tears to prevent eyes from drying. If vision blurs and fatigue persists, consult a health care provider.
Myth 7: Wearing the wrong kind of glasses can damage the eyes
False. Eyeglasses are tools that improve eyesight. Utilizing the correct grade for glasses and contact lenses will assist in clear vision. Wearing the wrong pair of lenses will not damage the eyes. It will only be uncomfortable.
Now that these common myths are debunked consult with an ophthalmologist at least once a year to address any discomfort and plan an eye care program for you.
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