Old wives' tales abound about the eyes. From watching TV to
eating carrots, here's the lowdown on some vision facts and
fiction.
Myth: Sitting too close to the TV is bad for the eyes.
Fact:
Although parents have been saying this ever since TVs first found
their way into our living rooms, there's no evidence that
plunking down right in front of the TV set damages someone's
eyes. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) says that kids
can actually focus up close without eyestrain better than adults,
so they often develop the habit of sitting right in front of the
television or holding reading material close to their eyes.
However, sitting close to a TV may be a sign of
nearsightedness.
Myth: If you cross your eyes, they'll stay that way.
Fact:
Contrary to the old saying, eyes will not stay that way if you
cross them.
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 child may inherit that same trait. Discuss your family's
visual history with your doctor.
Myth: Eating carrots can improve vision.
Fact:
Although it's true that carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is
essential for sight, so are many other foods (asparagus, apricots,
nectarines, and milk, for example). A well-balanced diet can
provide the vitamin A needed for good vision, says the AAO.
Myth: Computer use can damage the eyes.
Fact:
According to the AAO, computer use won't harm the eyes.
However, when using a computer for long periods of time, the eyes
blink less than normal (like they do when reading or performing
other close work). This makes the eyes dry, which may lead to a
feeling of eyestrain or fatigue. So encourage your kids to take
frequent breaks from Internet surfing or video games.
Myth: Two blue-eyed parents can't produce a child with
brown eyes.
Fact:
Two blue-eyed parents can have a child with brown eyes, although
it's very rare. Likewise, two brown-eyed parents can have a
child with blue eyes, although this is also uncommon.
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.
Reviewed by:
Sharon Lehman, MD
Date reviewed: December 2007
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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