The eyes are one of the most complex parts of the body, so it’s no wonder there are many myths surrounding eye care and vision. Unfortunately, some misinformation can be harmful to your health. To keep your eyes healthy, lead on to learn the facts behind four common misconceptions about eye sight.

4 Eye Care Myths Debunked 

1. Not Using Your Glasses Hurts Your Eyes

If you wear corrective lenses and don’t wear them, you may experience eye strain, which can result in issues such as headache, eye soreness, and fatigue. However, although failure to wear your glasses can make life more difficult, in most cases it will not hurt your eyes. Some young children are an exception. If a child wears glasses to fix a correctable vision issue, not wearing their glasses may exacerbate the problem. 

2. There’s Nothing You Can Do to Prevent Sight Loss

It’s true that macular degeneration and cataracts often occur as natural effects of aging. Most people will experience sight loss as they age. However, there are things you can do to keep your eyes healthy and vision strong for longer. This includes eating a healthy diet of foods rich in nutrients such as lutein, zinc, vitamins A, C, and E, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which contribute to eye health. Also, visit your eye doctor at least once a year for an exam. They will detect vision issues in the early stages and help you slow their progression.

3. Reading in Dim Light Harms Your Eyes

Similar to failing to wear your glasses, reading in dim light can be challenging and may cause eye strain. Avoid vision-intensive activities in low light, if possible, as eye strain can cause discomfort. However, it will not damage your eyes permanently. The same is true of sitting too close to a computer, TV, or book.

4. Wearing Glasses Weakens Your Eyes

Wearing glasses doesn’t make your vision worse or cause you to be dependent on them. Some eye conditions worsen over time, but that’s not a result of your eyewear. This myth comes from the fact that, when you get used to wearing glasses and seeing clearly, you’ll likely be more aware of existing vision issues than before wearing glasses.

For more information on eye care and vision, visit the professionals at Tri-State Ophthalmology in Ashland, KY. Since 1963, these eye doctors have served the Greater Portsmouth, OH, area, providing comprehensive eye care for the whole family. Call (606) 324-2451 to schedule an appointment with an eye care professional or visit the website to learn more about their team and services.