MORE MYTHS ABOUT YOUR EYES

I found a few more myths about your eyes that I thought you might find interesting. In short review, the following seven myths are just that, mythical and untrue: 1. Reading in dim light will hurt your eyes 2. Sitting close to the television screen will harm your eyes 3. You only need an eye exam when you notice problems with your eyes or vision 4. Everyone who has cataracts needs eye surgery 5. You will always go blind from glaucoma 6. Getting glasses will make your eyes worse 7. You should wear tinted lenses at night to reduce glare.

• Contact lenses can halt the progression of myopia (nearsightedness).

Rigid contact lenses can sometimes temporarily affect corneal shape but heredity is the big issue in determining how myopic you become. Recent studies even suggest that sleeping in your soft lenses could make you MORE nearsighted, not less.

• Cataracts are inherited.

There are a few types of cataracts that have a familial tendency, but the majority of age-related cataracts are NOT inherited, they are rather, graciously bestowed upon those of us living to a ripe old age. We all WANT cataracts! See the logic here?

• Cataracts are caused by overuse of the eyes.

I don't think so. Cataracts are a natural sign of aging and you cannot "create" them by using your eyes too much. However, the evidence is there, that overexposure to ultraviolet light over a period of many years may increase your chances of early cataracts. Protect your eyes with good quality sunglasses and a wide-brimmed cowboy hat. (You may substitute with the headgear of your choice)

• Viewing computer screens for long periods of time will cause damage to your eyes.

There is no scientific evidence that this is the case. However, eyestrain, fatigue, and headaches can certainly occur with prolonged use of CRTs. Good postural habits and proper viewing ergonomics can minimize the strain.

• If you cross your eyes on purpose they can get stuck in that position.

This, of course, used to be the biggest myth of all. There is now solid scientific evidence that this phenomenon can actually occur. I have seen this personally in kids who do not clean their rooms in a timely fashion and also in adults when they wear their disposable contacts too long. (And you know who you are!) I also have a few acres of beach front property for sale in central Kansas….interested?

• If you eat a lot of carrots you will have exceptionally good vision.

If you eat a lot of carrots your skin will turn yellow-orange, and you will see no better than your neighbor. Actually, the vitamin A in carrots and squash and other veggies is good for vision although it is sufficient in SMALL amounts. For that matter be careful not to overdose vitamin A as it may produce hair loss, confusion, headache, and dry lips and skin.

• If a child holds reading material close to the eyes, they may become damaged.

The focusing power of children is outstanding, and they are able to do tedious small tasks at very close range without causing any damage. It's a good idea to teach your kids to read at 12-16 inches away from their eyes, however, to reduce fatigue that can affect concentration.

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