10 Common Eye Myths, Debunked
by Linksfield Optometrist
Misconceptions about how our eyes work and how best to care for them can lead to unnecessary worry and poor eyecare practices. Here we separate eye ‘fact’ from eye ‘fiction’ by revealing the truth behind 10 common eye myths…
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Myth 1: Reading in Dim Light Damages Your Eyes
While it may strain your eyes, it won’t cause permanent damage. However, it can lead to temporary symptoms like eye fatigue, headaches and blurred vision. To reduce eye strain, ensure you have adequate lighting when reading or working on digital devices.
Myth 2: Carrots Improve Vision
Carrots are a good source of vitamin A, essential for eye health, but they won’t magically improve your vision. A balanced diet is key. Eating a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables, including carrots, can contribute to overall eye health.
Myth 3: Wearing Glasses Weakens Your Eyes
Glasses correct vision problems, they don’t weaken your eyes. In fact, not wearing the correct prescription can lead to eye strain, headaches and even eye damage.
Myth 4: Eye Exercises Can Improve Vision
Eye exercises can relieve eye strain but won’t correct refractive errors. Regular eye exams are crucial for identifying and addressing any underlying vision problems.
Simple Eye Exercises You Can Do At Home
Palming: Rub your hands together to warm them up, then cup them over your closed eyes. This can help relax your eye muscles.
Eye Rolling: Gently roll your eyes clockwise and counter-clockwise. This can help relieve eye strain.
Focus Shifting: Focus on a distant object, then shift your focus to a nearby object, like your finger held at arm’s length. Repeat this exercise several times.
Eye Blinking: Blink frequently to keep your eyes moist. This can help prevent dry eye symptoms.
Myth 5: Computer Screens Harm Your Eyes
Staring at screens for long periods of time can lead to digital eye strain. Here, the 20-20-20 Rule can help: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Taking frequent breaks and using blue light filtering glasses can also help reduce eye strain.
Myth 6: You’ll Outgrow Your Need for Glasses
In most cases, refractive errors like near-sightedness and far-sightedness are stable conditions that don’t improve over time. However, there are some exceptions, such as refractive errors in children, which may change as they grow.
Myth 7: Eye Floaters Are a Serious Problem
Most floaters are harmless and a normal part of aging. However, a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light can be a sign of a more serious eye condition and should be checked. If you experience a sudden change in your vision, contact us asap.
Myth 8: Colour Blindness Only Affects Men
While it’s true that colour blindness is more common in men, it can affect anyone; the most common form being red-green colour deficiency. It’s important to note that colour blindness is a genetic condition that cannot be cured.
Myth 9: Contact Lenses Can Damage Your Eyes
Modern contact lenses are safe and comfortable when used correctly. However, improper care or overuse can lead to eye infections. Always follow your eye-care professional’s instructions for proper lens care and wear. For more contact lens tips and advice, read our blog, Contact Lens Care 101
Myth 10: Eye Drops Can Be Used Indefinitely
Overusing eye drops can lead to rebound dryness and other eye problems. Also, once opened, eye drops can usually be used for four weeks, although it’s important to check the specific instructions on the label as this can vary depending on type.
The best way to administer eye drops:
1 Tilt your head back slightly and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze the bottle to release one drop into the pocket.
2 Close your eye gently and roll it around to distribute the drops.
3 Wait between drops. If you need to apply multiple drops, wait a few minutes between each application.
4 Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination. Also, never share eye drops with others, as this can spread infection
5 Store your eye drops in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in the appearance of the eye drops, such as cloudiness or discolouration, or if you experience any discomfort or eye irritation, discard the bottle.
At Linksfield Optometrist, we’re dedicated to helping you see clearly.
If you have questions about your vision, proper eye care and eye health in general, we’re happy to answer them for you.
Call 011 264 0407 or WhatsApp 060 721 5659.