Misinformation about eye health issues is more frequent than one might think. There are a great deal of myths out there, especially around screen time, glasses, nutrition and eye strain. While looking after our eyes and vision is paramount, protecting them is as important for the future.  However, there are a number of myths associated with eye health that might delay vital checkups. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the common myths regarding our eyes and vision care for the future.

Why Busting Eye Health Myths Matters?

Here’s what can happen when eye myths are believed:

• Delayed treatments for corrective lenses, other medical conditions, etc.
• Potential damage to long-term vision as the symptoms were ignored
• Excessive trust in unproven treatments damages the eyes 

Common Eye Health Myths and the Truth Behind Them

Misinformation is equally dangerous as neglect when it comes to eye health. Myths may restrict individuals from taking care of their eyes, thereby causing serious damage. So, let’s see what the common misconceptions are:

Myth 1: Reading Books or Papers Causes Eye Strain

This is a very prevalent myth about eye care. Some are confused about or even afraid that too much reading will be bad for their eyes because it will ruin/ tire out their eyes. Here, reading newspapers or books for a long time results in eye strain, but it does not permanently damage your eyes. 

Myth 2: Failure To Use Glasses Will Damage The Eyes

Some children have vision problems that can be improved if discovered early–usually by wearing their glasses appropriately. Eye issues that arise from genetics and/or physical injury may not be fixable, even by glasses. While glasses or contact lenses, e.g. corrective lenses like glasses or contact lenses, can improve your acuity or how well you can see.

Myth 3: Watching TV Is Bad for Your Eyesight

There is no evidence that hours and hours of watching TV has worsened people’s eyesight. The only thing that we know is how long a person has watched a television program at one time and whether or not it would affect their vision in the long term. However, it is an unproven activity. 

Myth 4: Contact Lenses Will Get Rid of My Nearsightedness 

Wearing contact lenses is not a permanent solution to your condition of nearsightedness. Myopia (nearsightedness) is likely a hereditary condition and is also likely to be improved under contact lenses. However, you will not prevent the likelihood of developing higher levels of nearsightedness while wearing contact lenses.

Myth 5: Cataracts can be Corrected With Lasers

Cataract surgery is a procedure in which a doctor surgically removes the cloudy natural lens of the eye – no lasers are involved with cataract surgery. If the doctor uses a laser, it is to remove the cloudiness of the thin membrane or casing where the lens was placed, which is left in the eye at the time of cataract surgery for the artificial lens. However, over time, the thin covering can become cloudy, and vision can become affected again. In such a case, a laser procedure can be done to remove the cloudy covering.

Myth 6: Eating Carrots Will Perfect Your Vision

Vitamin A is necessary for good eyesight, but only in needed quantities. Carrots and other vegetables contain vitamin A. Most diets are quite well-balanced with nutrients, but you don’t need carrots for vitamin A since excess vitamin A, D, or E can be harmful.

Myth 7: You Only Need an Eye Exam If You Notice a Problem

Everyone should undergo regular medical checkups irrespective of any problem. Screening children at birth, again at 6 months, and before school, is being conducted on a systematic basis throughout the school years. Adults will need an eye care exam under the close supervision of the eye-care doctor, which may vary between two years or less. 

How to Maximise Eye Health with Trusted Advice from Robin Hall Opticians?

Just like an effective renovation process requires planning, maintaining proper eye care begins with conscious choices and professional help. Here are the important factors that can keep your eyes healthy: 

• Keeping regular appointments can facilitate further investigation of potential issues to detect early, prior to problems occurring. 
• Attending for regular checks can help early detection of potential issues, before they become problematic.
• A good diet, manageable screen time, and hygiene can all help you stay on top of eye care.
• Keeping a healthy diet and limiting screen time, while keeping hygienic can all assist you to keep on top eye care.
• Speak with qualified eye opticians who are knowledgeable about vision science to get the best advice. 

Conclusion

There are numerous misconceptions about eye care health circulating on the internet every day. Following those myths can lead to eye injury and serious vision problems. Therefore, always seek help from expert opticians. At Robin Hall Opticians, their expert opticians debunk the myths to provide clarity, helping people to make informed choices. Here, every consultation is personalised as per your needs. 

Are you ready for expert advice? Call Robin Hall Opticians today and book your eye checkup!