Debunking the Most Common Eye Care Myths That Are Talked About Today

As well as fighting diseases, the healthcare industry has to fight against a lot of myths and misconceptions about anything and everything health-related. 

And, as the best ophthalmologist professionals in the country will tell you, eye care is no exception. In fact, eye and vision myths are so ingrained into the public consciousness that it’s almost impossible to find someone who doesn’t believe at least one old wives’ tale about the dangers of reading in dim light or sitting too close to the TV. 

Want to separate fact from fiction? Keep reading to find out the truth behind some of the biggest eye care myths around!

Myth: Reading, Using a Computer, and Watching TV All Damage Your Eyes

FACT: Reading in dim light or using a computer for hours on end might make your eyes feel tired or dry but these activities won’t damage or “wear out” your eyes.

And, despite what your mom told you about how sitting too close to the TV set will harm your eyesight, this isn’t true at all. That said, if you notice your child sitting close to the television, this might be a sign that they are nearsighted and need glasses. 

Myth: Only People With Vision Problems Need Regular Eye Exams

FACT: Even if you don’t wear glasses or corrective lenses, you should get your eyes checked at least every two or three years. As for those of you who do, annual eye exams are the best way to keep on top of your current eye and vision issues. 

Not sure how often you should see your local ophthalmologist? Click here for more information about how your age and other factors can make more regular eye exams a priority. 

Myth: Wearing Eyeglasses Weakens Your Eyes

FACT: Eyeglasses are external optical aids that correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or presbyopia. Wearing glasses will not weaken your eyes any more than they can offer any kind of permanent resolution for these types of eye and vision problems.

Myth: Not Wearing Prescription Glasses Damages Your Eyesight

FACT: Just as wearing the right glasses doesn’t harm your eyes, nor does not wearing them, or indeed, wearing the wrong glasses. You might not be able to see as well as you would wearing your correct prescription, but this won’t damage your eyesight. 

One exception is with glasses for children with crossed eyes (strabismus) or lazy eye (amblyopia). These glasses are a temporary corrective means to help straighten their eyes or improve their vision. Not wearing these glasses or wearing a bad fit may lead to permanently defective vision.

Myth: You Can Swim Wearing Soft Contact Lenses

FACT: Water and contact lenses do not mix, ever. Water can cause soft contact lenses to change shape and stick to your eyes. As well as being uncomfortable, this can scratch your cornea. Since most water is not germ-free, germs can then enter your eyes and cause serious infections that can even result in blindness. 

Debunking Common Eye Care Myths

We hope that these eye care facts have made everything a lot clearer (pun intended!) Although, if not, maybe it’s time you went to your local ophthalmologist for an eye exam?!

In all seriousness, while it’s not as easy to damage your eyes as these myths might have had you believe, it is vital to look after your vision with proper care and regular eye exams, whether you wear corrective lenses or not. 

Want more of the best advice and news updates? Be sure to check out our other blog posts for all the latest tips and tricks!