There are many myths surrounding our vision and eyesight. Most of these have been repeated so often that everyone just assumes they are facts. But they’d be wrong.
This post delves into some of the most common eye myths.
4 Common Eye Myths
Activities that ruin your eyes
Has anyone ever told you that reading in dim light or using computers frequently can damage your eyes? Both of these statements are actually myths.
While these activities may cause eye fatigue, neither will cause permanent damage.
Becoming “dependent” on your glasses
The myth that wearing eyeglasses causes you to become dependent on them is very popular, although it has no basis in fact. Rather than becoming “dependent,” on your glasses, you are simply getting used to seeing clearly.
And that’s a good thing!
Cataracts need to be “ripe”
Another common eye myth involves cataracts. A cataract is a thickening and discoloration of the eye’s lens that happens as we age. The myth suggests that a cataract needs to be “ripe” in order to be removed. Nope — there is no such thing as a “ripe” cataract.
When a cataract interferes with the activities of daily living and enjoyment, it is time to fix the problem, plain and simple.
One Eye Myth Based on Fact
Some myths have a grain of truth to them.
For example, many people believe that wearing the wrong kind of eyeglasses will damage your eyes. Wearing the wrong kind of eyeglasses won’t actually damage the eyes. But eyeglasses could damage the eyes of children.
Here’s the truth behind this eye myth: children under the age of eight should wear their own prescription. This prevents the development of amblyopia or “lazy eye”, which can occur as children’s eyes are continuing to mature.
Other Eye Myths?
What other eye myths have you heard? Or, are there any “facts” about the eyes that you suspect could be a myth? Let us know in the comments below.
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