Even with the proliferation of modern technology for eye and vision care, myths about eyes continue to remain. They could be old wives’ tales, or some may have roots in truth. But for the most part, it is difficult to ascertain where the myths regarding eyes came from, but it is possible to debunk some of those myths.
You will damage your eyes if you sit too close to the TV.
This is a false warning. You are not going to damage your eyes by watching TV up close. It is the same with watching 3D movies or using the computer. Instead of damaging your eyes, they will hurt because you spend too much time staring at the screen, causing your eyes to get tired. Blink your eyes regularly and look at distant objects for 20 minutes to rest your eyes, and you will feel better. If you feel your eyes are getting dry, irritated, or you’re experiencing eye flares, be sure to have an excellent eye treatment, like Eysuvis within easy reach, so you can have immediate eye relief any time.
It is bad for your vision to read in the dark.
You are not likely to damage your eyes by reading in the dark or a place with dim light. Your eyes will be strained or tired as they adjust to the low light, but that will not cause permanent damage. Rest your eyes by blinking for several seconds or closing them for a minute or two.
Eat carrots to make your eyes sharper.
Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is essential in maintaining good eye health. However, eating carrots will not bring back your 20/20 vision or help you see better in the dark. Your eyes use only a small amount of vitamin A, and your body utilizes the rest. Moreover, there are other foods rich in vitamin A aside from carrots.
Squinting is a sign that you are losing your vision
If there is too much light, your natural reaction is to squint your eyes. Squinting is not a sign of vision loss. Rather, squinting prevents too much light from reaching your pupil so you can have a sharper focus. However, frequent squinting indicates that the person cannot see clearly as their vision is impaired and will need to wear prescription eyeglasses.
Wearing glasses worsens your vision.
Your vision will not weaken by wearing prescription glasses. Your prescription glasses help you see more clearly. The myth persists, possibly because people who wear glasses continue to get higher prescriptions. But it is not the glasses that make your vision worsen. Myopia or distance vision typically worsens over time. Moreover, most people may experience vision deterioration in their 40s and 50s even if they are not using prescription glasses.
Conclusion
Do not believe that you cannot do anything to prevent sight loss. It is vital to rest your eyes frequently, especially when they are tired or strained. Get regular eye exams, wear safety eyewear, and use the prescribed eye treatments to help your vision. There are treatments for cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. What is essential is to visit your eye doctor for early diagnosis and treatment.
