Debunking 9 Common Myths About Eye Health: Fact vs. Fiction
- drgunjandeshpande
- Dec 12, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 29, 2024
Our eyes are portals to the world, allowing us to experience its beauty and navigate our surroundings with confidence.
It's no wonder we prioritize their health and well-being. However, navigating the world of eye care can be confusing, riddled with conflicting information and persistent myths.
Today, let's talk about the most common myths surrounding eye health, separating fact from fiction and empowering you to make informed decisions about your vision.
Myth Buster 1: Reading in the Dark Damages Your Eyes
While reading in dim light might cause temporary eye fatigue or discomfort, it will not permanently harm your vision.
This myth likely stems from the misconception that the eye muscles weaken with prolonged use in low light. However, the reality is that eye muscles constantly adjust to focus on objects at different distances, regardless of the lighting conditions.
However, it must be noted that adequate lighting is crucial for comfortable reading and can prevent fatigue and headaches. Aim for at least 500 lux of illumination when reading. Consider using blue-light filters on devices, they in turn help the sleep cycle, and avoid screens in the hour before bedtime to further minimise strain and improve sleep quality.
Myth Buster 2: Glasses Weaken Your Eyes
Think of glasses as your vision's personal trainer!
Refractive error depends on the shape and the size of your eyeball. Glasses simply correct these errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by focusing light rays accurately onto the retina.
Not wearing glasses when you need them can strain your eyes, leading to headaches, blurry vision, blurred distance vision, and other discomforts. I commonly come across parents who say that their child puts on his spectacles the moment he gets up…..well, this is because he knows if he wears one, his vision will be clear. It is not due to some addiction.
Myth Buster 3: Carrots Are the Vision Superhero
It's true - carrots are rich in the compound beta-carotene, which is used by the body to make a form of Vitamin A that helps in seeing in the dark and essential for healthy vision, however, they don't magically improve your vision beyond your eyes existing capabilities.
Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy eye tissues and supporting night vision. That is all that it can do.
Nevertheless, an overall balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides all the nutrients your eyes need for optimal health. Focusing on incorporating a variety of colorful foods into your diet is more beneficial than relying solely on carrots.
Myth Buster 4: Screens Don't Contribute to Myopia
This myth, unfortunately, doesn't hold water.
Extensive near work, including screen time and reading books, plays a significant role in myopia (nearsightedness) development, especially in children. Studies have shown a strong correlation between increased screen time and the progression of myopia.
This is so because prolonged focusing on close objects puts strain on the eye muscles and can alter the shape of the eye. Limiting screen time, taking breaks, and engaging in outdoor activities are crucial for reducing the risk of myopia progression.
Myth Buster 5: Eye Exercises Are a Cure-All
While some eye exercises may offer benefits like reducing eye strain and improving focusing ability, they have not been conclusively proven to cure vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism permanently.
The only condition where ocular exercises work is convergence deficiency, that is when the eyes cannot converge and see clearly for near. Additionally, some exercises where the eyes have to be manually pressed with the hand may be actually harmful. It's important to consult your eye doctor before starting any eye exercise program.
Myth Buster 6: Only Older Adults Need Regular Eye Exams
Early detection is key to preventing most causes of vision loss.
Regular eye exams for everyone, regardless of age, are crucial. The pediatric ophthalmologist is well trained and equipped to evaluate the vision of even pre-verbal children.
All children should have their first eye exam at six months old, followed by regular checks throughout childhood and adulthood. The frequency of exams may vary based on individual risk factors and age.
Myth Buster 7: Redness-Relieving Drops Solve All Eye Discomfort
Overusing redness-relieving eye drops can worsen irritation and even mask underlying conditions. These drops typically contain vasoconstrictors, which temporarily constrict blood vessels to reduce redness. However, they have no effect on the underlying cause and redness recurs after discontinuation of the eyedrop.
Over the counter, use of steroids can lead to multiple complications, both shortterm and longterm. Also, prolonged use can cause rebound congestion and worsen the problem.
It's important to consult your eye doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment of eye discomfort, as it may indicate an underlying issue requiring specific treatment.
Myth Buster 8: Eye Floaters Are Nothing to Worry About
While most eye floaters are harmless and caused by the aging of the vitreous humor (the gel-like substance inside the eye), they can sometimes indicate an underlying retinal tear or detachment.
Though they may remain stable for a long period of time, an annual examination of teh retina is a must.
If you experience new or sudden floaters (increase in density or size), accompanied by flashes of light or vision loss, or if you perceive a curtain like movement in your visual field; it's crucial to see your eye doctor right away. Early intervention for potential retinal tears can prevent serious complications like retinal detachment and subsequent and vision loss.
Myth Buster 9: Contact Lenses Are Unsafe
With proper care and hygiene, contact lenses are a safe and effective vision correction option.
They offer advantages like wider peripheral vision and a more natural field of view compared to glasses.
It is important to follow your eye doctor's instructions for lens wear and care to avoid complications like infections, corneal abrasions, and dry eyes. Always use the recommended lens solution and storage case, replace lenses regularly as prescribed, and maintain good hand hygiene to ensure safe and comfortable contact lens wear.
By debunking these common myths, I hope readers can now empower themselves to make informed choices about their eyes and vision. Remember, regular eye exams are essential for everyone, regardless of age or perceived vision problems. Taking proactive steps towards eye health ensures we continue to see the world clearly and appreciate its wonders for years to come.
I did not know so many points.