August 16, 2017

Top 5 Myths About Children’s Eye Health

There are myths abound when it comes to your children’s eyes and vision. Here are some of the most common misconceptions you’ve probably heard your parents say once or twice in your childhood:

• Staring at a computer for too long is bad. As long as you remember to blink, computer use won’t harm the eyes.
• Sitting too close to the TV screen hurts your eyes. There is no evidence of this, but it could indicate that your child might be nearsighted.
• If you cross your eyes, they will stay that way. Eyes will not stay crossed.
• Only boys can be color blind. Both boys and girls can be color blind but it is more common in boys.
• Wearing glasses too much will make the eyes dependent on them. Wearing glasses does not make your eyesight worse.

Eye safety is just as important as eye health. Each year thousands of children sustain an eye injury. Ninety percent of these injuries can be prevented by wearing protective eyewear. Some other ways to protect your child are as follows:

• Purchase toys that meet the safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Avoid purchasing projectile toys such as darts, bows and arrows and pellet guns.
• Keep all chemicals and sprays out of the reach of small children. Put locks on all cabinets and drawers that kids can reach.
• Do not allow children anywhere near fireworks.
• Use safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.

It is important to have your children’s eyes examined by an ophthalmologist to ensure normal vision development. It is equally important to provide safe toys, environments, and always have adult supervision to protect them from harm.

Michael Border, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist with Harrington Physician Services. He sees patients of all ages at our 20 Southbridge Road (Rt. 169) medical office building. For more information, call (508) 765-9068.