An Eye on the Truth

Spec-Savers

FALSE: READING IN DIM LIGHT IS BAD FOR YOUR EYES

For centuries, before the invention of electricity, people worked in very poor light conditions, but while this may have fatigued their eyes, it didn’t necessarily damage them. To avoid eye fatigue, be sure to read in ample light, though.

FALSE: EATING CARROTS WILL GIVE YOU PERFECT VISION

Carrots contain Vitamin A, which is good for your eye health, but other foods also contain Vitamin A, so eating specifically carrots has no direct impact on the overall health of your eyes.

FALSE: SITTING CLOSE TO THE TV WILL DAMAGE CHILDREN’S EYES

Children are able to focus at close distances without causing any strain to their eyes. Children who are near-sighted (myopia) also sometimes have to sit closer to the television in order to see. Again, this may cause eye fatigue, but won’t damage their eyes.

FALSE: STARING AT COMPUTER SCREENS CAN DAMAGE YOUR EYES

Discomfort – rather than damage – can be caused by staring at a computer screen for too long, as you blink less, which causes “dry eyes”. To avoid this, try to take regular breaks to give your eyes a rest. Looking at objects further away often relieves the feeling of strain on your eyes. FALSE: YOU SHOULD AVOID READING FINE PRINT IF YOU HAVE WEAK EYES Though your eyesight may deteriorate as you age, you can’t “wear out” your eyes by reading small text.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO HEED INSTEAD

Maintaining good eyesight includes wearing sunglasses in harsh light, turning on the blue light filter on your smartphone, ensuring your computer monitor is slightly lowered so you look down at your screen, eating a balanced diet, and taking vitamin supplements.

It is best to have regular check-ups with a professional optometrist for a thorough and accurate eye test. If you are experiencing persistent discomfort, get a head start on dealing with any developing conditions by scheduling an appointment with your nearest SpecSavers optometrist.

At Spec-Savers – thanks to years of experience and in-depth knowledge – they will give you the facts, and not the myths.

Visit specsavers.co.za to book your appointment today.