There are around 14 million Americans who experience some form of visual impairment in their life, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While many people experience eye conditions, roughly 80 percent can be addressed with refractive correction. When it comes to eye care, many people are unclear as to whether or not what they hear is a myth or the reality. The more one knows about the myths and truth about eye care, the better prepared they will be to care for their eyes.
“Some of the myths that people believe about eye care have been handed down for years,” explains Dr. Edward Kondrot, founder of the Healing The Eye & Wellness Center. He is also the president of the Arizona Homeopathic and Integrative Medical Association, and the clinic director of Integrative Medicine of the American Medical College of Homeopathy. “These myths can keep people from getting the proper treatment they need and in helping to keep their eyes healthy for years to come.”
Here are some myths, followed by their truths, regarding eye care:
- You should always wear sunglasses outdoors. This is a popular myth. Most people are not aware of the fact that sunglasses can actually be damaging to the eye. It creates a situation where your eye is dilating unnaturally and becomes dependent upon sunglasses.
- Carrots will help your vision. This is actually true. The vitamin A and antioxidants in carrots do provide beneficial properties for the eyes.
- You must leave your eyeglasses on all the time. This is a myth. Most people are afraid to take their eyeglasses off, yet prolonged wearing of glasses can actually make your eyes worse. Take your glasses off and go ahead and let your eyes relax.
- Fish oil is good for your eyes. This is a myth and more people are now beginning to learn that the plant-based omega oils are much more beneficial than fish oils.
- Eye exercises won’t help your eyes. This is a myth. The reality is that there are exercises you can do help improve your sight.
- Only older people need to go to the eye doctor. Many people believe this myth, and end up missing out on getting check-ups at a younger age. Being seen by the eye doctor for a check-up is something for all age groups and is the best way to detect problems early.
- Sitting too close to the television can hurt your eyes. This is a myth, along with the idea that one is going to harm their eyes from playing video games. While prolonged usage may make eyes feel more strained, it doesn’t do any actual damage to them.
“The more you know about these myths the more you can apply the truths to your life,” added Dr. Kondrot. “That is the best way to protect your eye health in the long run.”
For more information, visit www.healingtheeye.com.