MYTHS & FACTS

MYTHS & FACTS

THERE ARE MANY MYTHS OUT THERE ABOUT WHAT IS GOOD AND BAD FOR YOUR EYES. HERE WE WILL ATTEMPT TO CLEAR UP SOME OF THE FOG AROUND MAINTAINING HEALTHY EYES.

Fact: Although parents have been saying this since television first found its way into our living rooms, there is no evidence that plunking down right in front of the tv damages your eyes. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says that kids can actually focus up close without eyestrain better than adults, so they often develop the habit of sitting right in front of the television or holding reading material close to their eyes. Although it will not harm their eyes, it may be an indication that they are indeed nearsighted. Only an exam with an eye care specialist can determine this for sure.

Fact: Unfortunately this is sometimes true. If you need glasses for good vision or have developed an eye condition (such as glaucoma), your child may inherit the same trait. Discuss your family’s visual history with your eye specialist.

You may sometimes see small specks or clouds moving in your field of vision. They are called floaters. You can often see them when looking at a plain background, like a blank wall or blue sky.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, working on computers won’t harm your eyes. However, when using a computer for long periods of time, the eyes blink less than normal (like they do when reading or performing other close work). This makes the eyes dry, which may lead to a feeling of eyestrain or fatigue. So, it is a good eye to take frequent breaks from the computer, look away for a few minutes, blink and then you are ready to return to work.

Fact: Although reading in dim light can make your eyes feel tired just from the strain, it is not harmful to your eyes. But, make your eyes happy – turn on the light!

Fact: A good fit on your glasses is essential to get the best possible vision. If they are crooked or fit improperly, they may contribute to headache, eye strain or eye fatigue. The same happens if you wear glasses that were not made specifically for you. Your eyes may become tired, but no permanent damage will occur.