It’s important to separate fact from fiction, especially when the topic is eyesight. Knowing how to take good care of your eyes is the first step to protecting your sight for a lifetime. Below are some myths and facts about your eyes and what constitutes healthy vision.
Myth 1:
Myth 1: Reading in dim light can damage your eyes. Fact: Reading in dim light can cause eye fatigue, but it will not hurt your eyes.
Myth 2:
Watching television for too long or sitting too close can damage your eyes. Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that watching television for too long or sitting too close can damage your eyes. Young children often sit close to the television screen because they have a greater ability to focus on objects closer to their eyes than adults do. Due to this, children hold their reading material close as well. However, as they grow older, these habits usually change. If not, this may be a sign of myopia (nearsightedness). To detect possible eye problems, children should have regular eye exams.
Myth 3
Sunglasses are the best way to protect your eyes from the sun. Fact: Don’t assume that wearing dark sunglasses will keep your eyes safe. UV blocking agents are what helps block the sun’s harmful rays. Clear prescription lenses with UV blocking agents can protect your eyes as well as sunglasses. While the dark shading in sunglasses helps cut down on the sun’s glare, to adequately protect your eyes, always choose lenses with proper UV protection.
Myth 4:
Failure to use proper glasses will hurt your eyes. Fact: This statement does have some truth for a small number of people. Some children have eye problems that can be corrected, and it is important that they wear their glasses. While corrective glasses or contacts are needed to improve eyesight, using your eyes with or without glasses will not damage them further. To see your best, don’t wear anyone else’s glasses. And most importantly, get regular eye exams, so you always have the prescription that’s right for you.
Myth 5:
As long as you can see well, you don’t really need an eye exam. Fact: This is untrue! There is a lot more to an eye exam than just checking your prescription. During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor will check your overall eye health, which can sometimes show signs of other serious health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Eye exams are an important part of taking care of your overall health, so make sure to see your eye doctor every year.