In the age of technology, the internet has revolutionised the way we learn new information. With a simple click, we are immersed in an entirely new world where we can explore any topic we choose. If you’re reading this, then you have chosen to learn more about eye health, a topic that has a wide range of information at your fingertips.
There is no doubt that our most dominant sense is our sight. From perceiving the natural world around us to scrolling through our virtual spaces, our sight plays an important role in our day-to-day life. It is estimated that 80-85% of what we learn comes from our vision.
However, despite the widely studied nature of the eye, it is easy for you to come across inaccuracies or variations regarding eye health that may give you the wrong idea about your eyes. Though misinformation in general is rampant on social media, you may have heard of some of these inaccuracies through word of mouth in Jamaica, as there are popular eye-related misconceptions that span generations. A Nigerian study revealed that 64% of individuals believed that eye glasses were harmful to the eyes, highlighting one of the many misconceptions about vision.
It is our goal here at Premier Optical to dispel any misunderstandings about eye health that you may have stumbled across in Jamaica or even unknowingly spread yourself (we won’t tell…this is a safe space).
Premier Optical’s Guide to Unravelling Eye Myths in Jamaica
In this guide we explore five common myths that are prevalent in Jamaica regarding eye health and uncover the real truth behind these claims.
- Glass & Contacts Will Weaken Your Vision
- Wearing Glasses Makes Your Eyes Depend on Them
- Reading in Dim Light Damages Your Eyes
- Eye Exams are Only Necessary When You are Experiencing a Problem
- Watching Television Too Close Hurts Your Eyes
Myth 1: Glass & Contacts Will Weaken Your Vision
Verdict: False
The truth behind this is a simple no. Your vision will not deteriorate as a result of wearing prescription glasses and contact lenses. Glasses and contact lenses are merely tools to help temporarily correct your visual impairment and will not permanently change or fix the state of your eyes. Only certain procedures, such as LASIK, can permanently change the health of your eye.
Bear in mind that if you are new to wearing glasses, it may take a few days for you to adjust to them. However, if you are experiencing issues such as headaches, eye fatigue, and strain while wearing glasses, your prescription may be too weak or too strong for you. Consult your ophthalmologist in this case.
In addition, if your vision is worsening, it may be due to a condition known as presbyopia. For instance, your eye health tends to decline as you age, especially over age 40. This is a condition known as presbyopia. According to the National Eye Institute, Presbyopia is a refractive error that occurs as you age, usually after age 40-45. Other eye conditions that lead to low vision include glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts. Routine eye exams will help you identify and treat these conditions in a timely manner. Schedule an eye exam now with an eye care expert at Premier Optical.
Myth 2: Wearing Glasses Makes Your Eyes Depend on Them
Verdict: False
The truth is, eyeglasses do not make your eyes dependent on them. Wearing glasses does not contribute to the progression of your eye health, for better or worse. They simply help you see more clearly while you are wearing them. The state of your eye health depends on your genetics or specific eye condition, not your corrective lenses.
The right pair of glasses for your specific condition, whether it be near-sightedness, astigmatism, or far-sightedness, will help to improve your visual clarity and make your day-to-day tasks easier. Wearing glasses not only helps you see clearly but also helps to prevent unnecessary eye strain and discomfort that you may experience not wearing them. Our expert doctor at Premier Optical will ensure that you receive the correct lenses for your eye concerns.
To make wearing glasses more enjoyable, visit Premier Optical in Kingston, Jamaica and shop our wide range of eye frames to find the one that fits your unique style.
Myth 3: Reading in Dim Light Damages Your Eyes
Verdict: False
According to Nicola Kim, M.D., an assistant professor of ophthalmology at UAMS’ Jones Eye Institute, reading in dim light “will not change the health and function of your eyes”. There is also no research suggesting that reading in dim light will lead to permanent vision impairment in the future. However, dim light may cause your eyes to strain as you find it harder to focus properly.
Brighter light will help you avoid the discomfort and pain associated with eye strain. Eye strain does not lead to permanent damage to your eyes; however, it may be unpleasant to experience.
Myth 4: Eye Exams are Only Necessary When You are Experiencing a Problem
Verdict: False
Just as routine health and dental visits are encouraged, eye examinations are also essential for your well-being. In fact, it is recommended that individuals undergo an eye exam once a year. Routine eye exams are crucial in the monitoring of eye health as well as in the early detection of eye problems such as glaucoma, which can cause permanent vision loss.
The World Health Organization declared that by 2030, 40% of the world’s population will have myopia (near-sightedness). Most cases of myopia are seen in children, with 80% of teens and young adults in China having this condition. This highlights the importance of regular eye exams, especially in children, as they can help to ensure that their eyes are developing correctly, aiding in their overall learning and development.
Myth 5: Watching Television Too Close Hurts Your Eyes
Verdict: False
Despite popular belief, sitting too closely to the television does not negatively affect the function and structure of your eyes. However, it may be very uncomfortable, resulting in temporary eye strain. This issue is often seen in children as some may watch their digital devices too closely and for prolonged periods of time. Even though, children are able to focus on things up close without eyestrain than adults, it is important to encourage good habits in them by taking frequent breaks.
If your child has the habit of watching the television too closely, it may be an indication that they may be near-sighted. Regular eye examinations with your ophthalmologist can help to detect common eye problems in children and offer the best treatment for their issue. Schedule an eye exam with a trusted eye doctor in Jamaica today at Premier Optical.
For Trusted Eye Health Tips, Choose Premier Optical
Despite the unbridled access to the information we have today via the internet, it is easy to get lost in the sea of medical advice available. As such, it is important to remember that not all of this medical information was created equally. Some instil fear, while others lead the blind further into blindness with inaccurate eye health tips. Don’t be fooled by untrusted sources, choose Premier Optical as your all-in-one guide to all aspects of eye health. Premier Optical is committed to being your trusted source for eye health information in Jamaica, giving you the confidence to take care of your eyes the right way.