BlueNet SPECIALITIES
Ophthalmology

5 Myths About Vision (According to Ophthalmology Specialists).

There are many myths that are heard daily about eye care and visual health.

5 Myths About Vision (According to Ophthalmology Specialists).

1- Smoking does not affect vision.
Smoking can indeed harm visual health. Tobacco use increases the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that affects the central part of the retina and can cause progressive vision loss. In addition, it reduces oxygen supply to the eyes and accelerates the aging of eye tissues.




2- Does reading in low light damage your eyesight?
No, reading in low light does not cause permanent damage to your eyes.

However, it can lead to eye strain and symptoms such as:
- Eye fatigue
- Burning sensation
- Headaches
- Difficulty focusing

Poor lighting forces your eyes to work harder, but it does not cause eye diseases.
🔎 Reading with proper lighting helps reduce visual strain and maintain greater comfort.



3- Does using a computer damage your eyes?
Prolonged screen use does not cause permanent damage to your eyesight, but it can lead to what is known as digital eye strain.

The most common symptoms include:
- Dry eyes
- Temporary blurred vision
- A gritty sensation
- Headaches

This happens because blink rate decreases when using electronic devices.
🔎 Recommendation: Follow the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

If discomfort is frequent, an eye examination can help rule out visual issues and provide personalized guidance.

Additionally, in children, excessive screen use has been associated with a higher risk of developing myopia, especially when they spend little time outdoors.



4- Are sunglasses only necessary in the summer?
No. Sunglasses should be worn year-round.

Ultraviolet (UV) rays are present even on cloudy days. Prolonged exposure can increase the risk of developing:
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Corneal damage
- Pterygium, commonly known as “surfer’s eye”

In regions with high sun exposure, eye protection is especially important.

🔎 It is recommended to wear sunglasses with certified UV protection to reduce the impact of ultraviolet radiation on the eyes.



5- Should you only see an ophthalmologist when you have vision problems?

This is one of the most important myths.

Some eye diseases can develop without symptoms in their early stages, such as:
- Glaucoma
- Retinopathies
- Macular degeneration
- Progressive refractive errors

An annual eye examination allows for early detection of changes, even before they affect vision.

At BlueNetHospitals, comprehensive ophthalmologic evaluations are performed with a focus on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of eye diseases.



Don’t wait for symptoms to appear to take care of your vision. An eye exam at the right time can make all the difference. At BlueNet Hospitals, you have Ophthalmology specialists to help you see better today and in the future. Schedule your appointment with a specialist via WhatsApp: (624) 151 0693

Informational content prepared for educational purposes and reviewed by Dr. Arturo Guerra Juárez, Ophthalmology specialist, professional license (3758191), who provides care at BlueNetHospitals.



FAQs


How often is it recommended to see an ophthalmologist?
An annual eye exam is recommended, even if there are no visible symptoms.

Can screens cause permanent vision loss?
No. However, excessive use without breaks can lead to eye strain and dry eyes.

Can sun exposure affect eye health?
Yes. Ultraviolet radiation is a risk factor for various eye conditions, so proper protection is recommended.


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