In a world filled with old wives' tales and an abundance of online information, distinguishing between fact and fiction can be challenging, especially when it comes to our health. Eye health, in particular, is surrounded by myths and misconceptions that have been passed down through generations.
At Everett & Hurite, we are committed to providing the highest-quality eye care and educating our patients about their vision. In this article, we debunk five common eye myths that everyone should know.
Myth #1: Staring At Screens Weakens Your Eyes
It's a common belief that the use of screens, such as computers and smartphones, can damage your eyesight. However, there is no evidence to support this claim.
Fact: Staring at screens and sitting close to the TV can cause eye fatigue since we tend to blink less often during screen time, but this does not result in eye damage. To reduce eyestrain and eye fatigue, follow the 20 20 20 rule. For every 20 minutes you spend looking at a screen, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Myth #2: Eating Carrots Will Improve Your Vision
Carrots are known for their high vitamin A content, which is important for maintaining good vision. However, eating an excessive amount of carrots will not improve your eyesight beyond what it's capable of.
Fact: A well-balanced diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables is essential for overall eye health. Carrots are rich in beta carotene, which is converted into vitamin A (also known as retinal) inside the body. Although retinal is an important molecule involved in maintaining normal vision, it cannot improve poor eyesight. A diet rich in retinal can only help to maintain eyesight that is already normal and healthy.
Myth #3: Sunglasses Protect Your Eyes From The Sun
While sunglasses do offer protection against harmful UV rays, not all sunglasses are created equal. Some cheap or knockoff sunglasses may actually do more harm than good.
Fact: Always wear polarized, 100% UV-blocking sunglasses when outdoors in bright sunlight. This will help protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of developing cataracts or macular degeneration. Look for sunglasses with a sticker that says '100% UV protection' or 'UV400,' which means they block all UVA and UVB rays.
Myth #4: Eye Exams Are Only Necessary When Problems Arise
Many people believe that if they have good vision, they don't need to have regular eye exams. However, even if their eyesight is perfect, an eye exam can detect potential issues and prevent them from developing into serious problems.
Fact: Regular visits to the eye doctor at Everett & Hurite are not just for the elderly or the vision impaired. Eye checkups are an essential part of overall health, whether or not you're having noticeable issues with your vision. Eye diseases like glaucoma can arise long before old age sets in, which is why preventative care is vital to maintaining healthy vision. Be sure to make an appointment with an eye care professional and follow a regimented eye health program.
Myth #5: Children Can Outgrow Crossed Eyes
Crossed eyes, also known as strabismus, occur when the eyes are misaligned and point in different directions. Some parents believe that their child's crossed eyes will eventually correct itself as they grow older.
Fact: Children with crossed eyes should receive treatment from an eye doctor as soon as possible. If left untreated, crossed eyes can lead to permanent vision loss and difficulty with depth perception. Early detection and treatment can help correct the issue and prevent long-term vision problems. Speak with our eye doctor at Everett & Hurite about treatment options for your child as soon as possible. Our optometrists may recommend an eye patch, eye drops, or surgery to correct the problem.
Take Care of Your Eyes Today!
Don't believe everything you hear about your eyes. It's important to educate yourself and seek professional advice from an eye doctor for any concerns or issues. Remember to follow the 20-20-20 rule, maintain a healthy diet, protect your eyes from UV rays, and schedule a routine eye examination to ensure optimal eye health.
The ophthalmology team at Everett & Hurite is highly experienced in all areas of eye care - from routine exams to complex surgical procedures. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and eye care products enable us to deliver a superior level of care to all of our patients.
If you have any questions or concerns about your vision health, call 412-288-0858 or with us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reading in dim light bad for your eyes?
No, reading in dim light will not cause any permanent damage to your eyes. However, it is always best to read in a well-lit room to avoid unnecessary strain on the eyes. If you find yourself regularly needing extra light to read, it may be a sign of an underlying vision problem or eye disease, and you should schedule an eye exam at Everett & Hurite.
Can eye exercises strengthen my eye muscles?
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that eye exercises can strengthen or improve eye muscles. In fact, excessive strain on the eye muscles through certain exercises may lead to headaches and fatigue. The best way to maintain healthy eye muscles is to follow a balanced diet, get enough rest, and take breaks during screen time.
Is it possible for me to use contact lenses instead of wearing eyeglasses?
Yes, it is possible to use contact lenses as an alternative to wearing glasses. However, it is important to consult with Everett & Hurite before making the switch, and our eye doctor will need to assess your eyes and determine if you are a suitable candidate for contact lens wear. Our team can also provide guidance on proper care and maintenance of contact lenses to ensure optimal eye health.
Can I damage my eyes by wearing someone else's glasses?
Yes, wearing someone else's glasses can cause eye discomfort and strain. Each person's prescription is unique to their eyes, and wearing the wrong prescription can lead to headaches, dizziness, and blurry vision. It's important only to wear glasses that have been prescribed specifically for you by an eye doctor. If you are experiencing issues with your current glasses or suspect a change in your prescription, schedule an eye exam with an optometrist at Everett & Hurite to ensure optimal vision health and comfort.
