Your eyes provide your sense of sight, letting you perceive your surroundings and carry out daily tasks efficiently. Unfortunately, inaccurate information about your visual health may hinder you from taking good care of your eyes.
Your eye specialist unveils the truths behind four common eyesight myths:
Myth #1: Your Family Medical History Has No Impact on Your Visual Health
Heredity is a major risk factor for many eye diseases. Having a father who’s nearsighted, for example, increases your chances of being nearsighted too. This is why we will begin your comprehensive eye exam by discussing your medical history.
Myth #2: Holding a Digital Device Too Close May Damage Your Eyes
There’s no evidence that this habit causes damage to your eyes. That said, it may be a sign of an underlying refractive error, particularly myopia (nearsightedness), which compromises distant-range vision. Your eye care specialist may prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses for your improved vision.
If you feel discomfort when working on the computer or other digital device, you may be experiencing computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain. Common symptoms include sore or heavy eyes. Following the 20-20-20 rule can prevent this problem. After 20 minutes on your device, look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Myth #3: Looking Straight at the Sun Will Not Harm Your Eyes
Staring directly at the sun may cause excessive UV light exposure, leading to photokeratitis or corneal sunburn. This can be very painful. You may also experience extreme sensitivity to light, headaches and more. Remember to wear sunglasses whenever you’re going outside. Your eye care clinic offers a wide selection of sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection.
Myth #4: Corrective Eyewear Will Worsen Your Vision Problem
Eyeglasses or contact lenses help improve your vision; they do not hurt it. Your eyes may require some time to adapt to the eyewear, especially if your prescription is high.
To learn more about your eyes, complete our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve NY residents.
