Myth… A cataract must be “ripe” before it can be removed.
Fact… A cataract is an opacity of the lens of the eye. When the lens becomes totally opaque, the cataract is sometimes called “ripe.” A cataract should be removed surgically at any time that it is impairing the person’s activities. Thus, you don’t have to wait until the lens becomes totally opaque to operate. On the other hand, not every cataract has to be removed. If someone with a small cataract has good visual function, surgery may not be necessary.
Myth… Wearing glasses tends to weaken the eyes.
Fact… When children become nearsighted (myopic), usually between the ages of 8 and 12, there is a natural progression in their myopia and a need for a stronger correction over the next few years. These children, as well as nearsighted adults, may believe that glasses have weakened their eyes when their lens prescription needs to be made stronger. Glasses, however, do no weaken eyes; they are simply aids to improve vision.
People who have been able to read easily close up without glasses may find that they cannot do so as they get older (past 40). When they begin to need stronger and stronger glasses, they may assume that wearing glasses has “ruined” their eyes. In actuality, they are experiencing a normal condition called presbyopia – the inability of the aging eye to focus on near objects.
Myth… A diagnosis of glaucoma means that you will become blind.
Fact… This is certainly not true if glaucoma is treated early. Patients with early-detected glaucoma can retain normal vision if they continue to use their prescribed medications. Unfortunately, glaucoma remains a major cause of blindness in the world. This is largely because a common type of glaucoma, open angle glaucoma, is often symptom-free until late in the progression of the disease. Most types of glaucoma are characterized by an abnormally increased pressure inside the eye. Measurement of the intraocular pressure, therefore, is an essential step to detect glaucoma and should be a part of a complete eye exam.
Myth… Working many hours in front of a computer screen will harm your eyes.
Fact… Although using computers will not damage your eyes, fatigue or eye strain may occur with prolonged use.
Myth… Reading in poor light or prolonged reading of very fine print will ultimately harm your vision.
Fact… Although reading in dim light is unwise because it may cause your eyes to feel tired or uncomfortable, it can’t hurt your eyes. There really is very little you can do that will permanently damage your eyes. Similarly, reading small print or reading extensively cannot cause damage to the eyes. This is true even for people who already have poor vision. They eyes are meant to be used!
Myth… If parents have poor eyesight, their kids will inherit that trait.
Fact… Unfortunately, this one is sometimes true. If you need glasses for good vision or have developed an eye condition (such as cataracts), your kids might inherit that same trait. Discuss your family’s visual history with your doctor.
Myth… Only boys can be color-blind.
Fact… It’s estimated that up to 8% of boys have some degree of color blindness, whereas less than 1% of girls do.
Myth… Crossing the eyes produce strabismus.
Fact… The incorrect eyes’ posture is the result of developmental impairments. Crossing the eyes for amusement is not dangerous.
Myth… Looking straight at the sun will damage your sight.
Fact… Looking at the sun may not only cause headache and distort your vision temporarily, but it can also cause permanent eye damage. Any exposure to sunlight adds to the cumulative effects of ultraviolet radiation on your eyes. UV exposure has been linked to eye disorders such as macular degeneration, solar retinitis, and corneal dystrophies.
Myth… Poorly fit contacts do not harm your eyes.
Fact… Poorly fit contact lenses can damage your cornea. If you use contact lenses, have them checked regularly.
Myth… Eye exercises will improve your vision.
Fact… Eye exercises will not improve your vision. This myth has made many people wealthy. Rolling your eyes around has no effect on your vision.
