Eye Myths Part 3

Do you ever wonder if eye myths told to you by your family and friends are true?

Myth: If you lot a lot of carrots it will improve your vision.

Carrots have beta-carotene and are a good source of vitamin A.  Eating carrots will not improve your eye site regardless how many you eat.  It is always important to maintain a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables.

Myth:  Reading in the dark can damage your eyes.

We have all read in the dark.  The only thing this will cause is eye fatigue.  Your eyes will become tired a bit quicker causing words to seem blurry but this is only temporary and no permanent damage has been done to your vision.

Myth:  Starring at the computer all day will ruin your eyes.

When you stare at anything for an extended period of time you tend to blink less causing dryness and eye strain but will not affect your vision.  This can occur with reading, any kind of screen use, even watching tv or driving for a long time.  It is recommended for you to take regular breaks and frequently glance away from the computer when working for an extended amount of time.  Sometimes an artificial tear drop can help with eyes that feel tired or blurry.  Staring at the computer will not cause permanent damage to your vision.  If your eyes constantly feel dry with prolonged screen time Dr. Cindy Wang, Dr. Stanley Grandon and I can evaluate you and offer treatments to help make your eyes more comfortable.

Myth:  Crossing your eyes will make them stay crossed forever.

When you cross your eyes to be funny it may cause some laughs from your friends but it will not cause permanent damage to your eyes.  Afterwords, your eyes will return to the normal position.  This will not cause any permanent problems to your eyes.

Alaina Kronenberg, M.D.
Cataract Specialist
Comprehensive Ophthalmologist
Dearborn, Michigan