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Seven Eye Care Myths Exposed
by Dr. Howard Straub, D.O.

When it comes to eye care, there are many myths and old wives tales floating around. Many of these sound plausible, so it can be hard to discern fact from fiction. It’s important to know what is true and what is not. This will help you when you are making decisions that may affect the health of your eyes.

Dim Light Is Harmful

While adequate lighting does make it easier, reading under dim lights will not damage your eyes. When it comes to lighting, it is all about what you prefer. Very poor lighting can strain your eyes when you are trying to read under such conditions. However, this does not cause any lasting damage.

Sitting Close to the Television Damages the Eyes

Your mom probably told you this at least a hundred times when you were growing up. As of right now, no evidence exists to prove that sitting close to the television can damage the eyes. If sitting up close helps you to see — as it does for people with nearsightedness — this is okay. If you do find yourself having to sit close to the television often, you may want to make an appointment with your eye doctor. The right pair of corrective lenses can help to sharpen your vision, so you can sit back a bit and relax.

The Wrong Glasses Damage the Eyes

Your parents probably also told you that wearing another person’s glasses could damage your eyes. Wearing the wrong glasses will not physically damage your eyes. If you try a prescription that differs from yours, you just won’t see as well. This is because the prescription is either too weak or too strong for you. However, as soon as you put your glasses back on, your vision will be sharp and clear again.

Computers Can Damage the Eyes

Working on a computer can often be uncomfortable for your eyes, but it will not cause any permanent damage. For example, when you are staring at the screen for hours on end, it is not uncommon to experience things like dry eyes and eyestrain. To help prevent these temporary, minor issues, simply take a break every 20 to 30 minutes and look away from the screen.

You Can Become Dependent on Glasses

Your eyes do not become dependent on corrective lenses. Your uncorrected vision does not worsen each time you remove your glasses. Glasses simply help correct your vision, making it sharper and clearer. Because you can see better with glasses, you will surely want to wear them often. However, this is a personal preference and has nothing to do with your eyes becoming dependent on corrective lenses.

Dry Eye Is Only a Symptom

This is a myth that few people are aware of. Dry eye can be a symptom, but it can also be considered a medical condition in and of itself. It is usually classified as a medical condition when it is persistent and is generally termed chronic dry eye. When eyes are chronically dry, they can become red, itchy and irritated. There are treatments that can help to lubricate the eye to alleviate the symptoms and make you more comfortable.

Perfect Vision is 20/20

This is probably one of the most common eye care myths. Vision of 20/20 just means that you do not have any major vision problems. However, eye disease can still be present. For example, you can have 20/20 vision and still be in the early stages of glaucoma. In the early stages, the majority of people do not experience symptoms, so they have no idea they have this eye disease. You can also be significantly farsighted — unable to see things close up — and still be considered to have 20/20 vision.

If you experience eye problems of any sort, be sure to visit an eye care specialist. They can help you discern fact from fiction and keep your eyes in the best possible health.

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author
Dr. Howard Straub, D.O.
Dr. Howard Straub, D.O.
Doctor Howard Straub, D.O. is board certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology and a fellow of the American…

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