7 Common Vision and Eye Myths: Busted

It's amazing that with today's access to information about eyes and vision how many myths about them still persist. If anything, there seem to be even more myths than ever. For instance, you've probably heard that looking at a computer screen can damage your eyes (it doesn't) or that sitting too close to the television will ruin your vision (it won't). Maybe you've heard reading in dim light is bad for your eyes (it isn't) or that eating carrots will improve your vision (it probably won't). Some myths about eyes are laughable, such as the one parents love to tell their kids: if you cross your eyes too much, they'll stay that way (they won't, really!). Unfortunately, other myths and misconceptions can be harmful, such as the belief that children will outgrow a lazy eye (they won't) or that there's nothing you can do about vision problems as you age (there is). So if you've ever wondered whether wearing glasses will weaken your eyes or if you can do anything to help prevent vision loss, you've come to the right place. Read on to bust myths and learn the truth about your eyes and vision.

• Myth: Looking at a computer screen for too long will damage your eyes. The truth is that when you look at a computer screen, your eyes tend to blink less than usual. This causes your eyes to dry out and become uncomfortable. You can avoid this by following the "20-20-20" rule which is every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This will also help reduce eyestrain and fatigue.
• Myth: Sitting too close to the TV will ruin your vision. Kids can actually focus better up close than adults without causing eye strain so it's natural for them to sit closer to the television. This won't hurt their eyes, but sitting close to the TV could also be a sign of nearsightedness, so a visit to an ophthalmologist may be in order.
• Myth: Reading in dim light is bad for your eyes. While trying to read in low light will give you eye strain, dry eye and possibly a headache, it won't weaken your vision. However, since your pupil dilates to let in more light, any vision problems you already have will make it more difficult to see in low light.
• Myth: Eating carrots will improve your eyesight. Carrots contain vitamin A, which the body needs for good eyesight. However, the average American diet has plenty of this vitamin already so munching on carrots won't make a difference unless you happen to be deficient in vitamin A.
• Myth: Children can outgrow strabismus (crossed eyes) and other vision problems. Vision problems such as crossed or lazy eyes will not simply go away on their own. However, it is much easier to correct these problems sooner rather than later, so don't delay a visit to the eye doctor.
• Myth: Your vision will deteriorate with age and there's nothing you can do about it. There are many causes for vision loss that can absolutely be treated so schedule a visit with your ophthalmologist as soon as you perceive a problem. While cataracts are a common age-related vision problem, they too can be treated.
• Myth: Wearing glasses will weaken your eyes. If you wear corrective lenses, your prescription may change over time due to age or disease but not because you're wearing corrective lenses.

If you have any concerns about your vision, it's best to see a specialist such as those at Haas Vision Center. Board certified ophthalmologists have the expertise and knowledge to diagnose and treat any problems you may experience.

About the Author: Beth A. Stevens is a vision expert and contributing writer who enjoys educating patients on how they can improve their vision.

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