Many myths date back to a time when information was not as easily accessible as it is today. Although some of the myths are older than sliced bread, it seems as though some people still believe them today.
These false stories need to be demystified once and for all! Accurate information is important when it comes to our overall health and our eyes. Here are a few examples:
1.Preventing Vision Loss is Impossible
This is false! Depending on the cause of the vision loss and when detected early, treatments can be prescribed that can stop or slow down the progression of the condition or disease. If you are having abnormal symptoms like blurred vision, pain, seeing flashing lights or floaters, it is best to consult with your optometrist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment options.
2.Eating Carrots Will Improve Your Vision
This is partially true. It can help maintain healthy eyes but unfortunately, will not improve your sight. Carrots are a great source of vitamin A since they contain a large amount of the nutrient, but it isn’t the only food you should eat to get your daily dose. Vitamin A is vital for your eyes. It helps protect the cornea, contributes in helping you see in low-light and it is great for your overall eye health! So, eat your carrots but most of all remember to eat plenty of food rich in vitamin A because that is the real hero that will help improve your eye health.
3.Looking Directly at the Sun Will Damage Your Eyes
This is very true! We have all heard about the dangers of staring at the sun during a solar eclipse, but you should not stare directly at the sun, ever! It can cause headaches, effect and distort your vision but most concerningly, it can permanently damage your retina. In fact, even if you know not to look straight at the sun, sunglasses are a must when you are outdoors. Exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays has been linked to cause age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, pterygium and other eye issues and disorders.
4.Using Digital Screens and Sitting Too Close to the Television will Damage Your Sight
This is fiction. As children, we’ve all had our parents warn us not to sit too close to the television because it would damage our eyesight. And, in recent years, a lot has been said about protecting our eyes against the blue light transmitted by digital screens. We definitely need to monitor the amount of time we spend in front of a screen but not because it will affect your vision. Digital screens emit a blue light which reaches the back of the eye, and long exposures are believed to cause eyestrain, dry eyes and in some cases age-related macular degeneration. There are ways to reduce the effects of the blue light. Click here to read our tips.
If your child sits very close to the TV or places the tablet or smart phone very close to their face to watch their favourite cartoon, it may be time to get their eyes checked as this may be a sign that they need glasses.
5.My Sight Will Weaken if I Wear Glasses or Contact Lenses
This is totally false! If you require corrective glasses or contact lenses to see, it is best to use them. Your vision will not deteriorate as a result of wearing them. In fact, they will help you avoid squinting, reduce the chances of headaches caused by trying to focus, and will most definitely correct your vision problems.
You should not, however, wear someone else’s prescription glasses or contact lenses. If these are not fitted to your exact vision requirements and dimensions, it may cause eventual issues.
At IRIS we want you to have the experience of better vision and to also be as informed as possible when it comes to your eyes. Feel free to contact your nearest IRIS store to book an appointment for your eye exam or to simply demystify any myths you may be concerned with.
