6 of the biggest myths about your eyesight

Here we put six of the biggest eyesight myths under the microscope.

The internet is making it harder than ever to know the difference between good solid facts and sneaky falsehoods. Information about our eyesight and eye care is no different – so to sort the wheat from the chaff, we’re busting six of the biggest vision myths.

MYTH ONE

You don’t need an eye test if your vision is fine

Wrong. You may be surprised to learn that our eyes can be hiding health problems even while our vision remains perfect. Things change over time, so while you might be able to see clearly now, this doesn’t mean your vision will stay this way forever. The NHS recommends having your eyes tested at least every 2 years. After all, the earlier an eye condition is detected, the better.

MYTH TWO

Glasses prescriptions can be converted into contact lens prescriptions

Not true! While glasses sit around 10-14mm away from the eye, contact lenses have direct contact – meaning you’ll need an entirely different prescription.

Base curve and diameter also need to be considered when prescribing contact lenses. In other words, contact lens prescriptions must be handled by an expert.

Always go for a new eye test or speak to an optometrist if you’re interested in contact lenses or need eye care advice. If you’re not sure whether they’re right for you, you can find more information here.

MYTH THREE

Staring at a computer screen or TV will ruin your eyesight

Even though your mum used to swear you’d get square eyes from watching too much telly, screens aren’t as bad as the headlines might make out. Like most things in life, moderation is key. However, research suggests that using devices before bed can upset our natural sleep patterns, so keep device usage to a minimum as bedtime approaches.

It’s important to take regular breaks away from your computer, TV, or phone screen. The 20/20/20 rule will have you covered: every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This should help prevent your eyes from getting tired and strained.

MYTH FOUR

Eye problems only happen when you’re older

Everyone is different, so while you might be lucky and only begin to see any deterioration from around the age of 40, others will experience declining vision from childhood onwards (although usually, it stabilises in young adulthood onwards).

This is why regular eye tests are so important. Changes to our vision can happen at any age, it’s not just the over 60s who need to take care of their eyes.

MYTH FIVE

Sunglasses are just for show

False. You’ll no doubt look great rocking a pair of aviators on the beach, but good-quality sunglasses also protect your eyes from powerful sun rays. Some older sunglasses may not be as effective as you think, so our eye care advice is to treat yourself to a new pair for summer that offers 100% protection against both UVA and UVB.

MYTH SIX

Diet doesn’t have an affect on eyesight

Back to the age-old carrot question – do they really help us see in the dark? The answer is actually yes and no. They contain vitamin A, which your eyes need to be healthy.

However, there are plenty of other foods that are important to eye health, like eggs, oily fish, fortified low-fat spreads, milk, yoghurt and green leafy veg. A healthy diet is important for keeping our eyes in tiptop condition.

Book your eye test today

It’s not a myth – booking a regular eye test really could save your vision. Call our team on 0800 40 20 20, book your appointment online or pop into your nearest Leightons branch today.