Eye Health: Do You Know Myth From Fact?

Knowing the facts is important in general, but especially when it pertains to your health. We’ve all heard at least some of the following statements about eye sight, like wearing the wrong glasses can harm your eyesight or reading small print can damage your eyes. But what’s really true? Here are five common myths about vision, according to Prevent Blindness: Myth: Failure to use proper glasses will hurt your eyes. Fact: This statement does have some truth in it for a small number of people. Some children have eye problems that can be corrected, and it is important that they wear their glasses. While corrective glasses or contacts are needed to improve eyesight, using your eyes with or without glasses will not damage your vision further. Myth: Reading in dim light can damage your eyes. Fact: Reading in dim light can cause eye strain, but it will not hurt your eyes permanently. Myth: Watching television for too long or sitting too close can damage your eyes. Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that watching television for too long or sitting too close can damage your eyes. To detect possible eye problems, children should have regular eye exams. Myth: Eating carrots will improve your vision. Fact: While it is true that carrots, as well as many other vegetables are rich in vitamin A, which is an essential vitamin for sight, only a small amount is necessary for good vision. A well-balanced diet, with or without carrots, provides all the nutrients the body needs. Myth: Reading fine print for too long will wear out or damage your eyes. Fact: This is one of the most widely held myths about vision. Some people are concerned that they should not read too much because it will wear out their eyes. Although extensive or prolonged reading of fine print can cause eye strain, there is no evidence to suggest that it will damage or wear out your eyes.