Busted! Don’t Believe Myths About Eyes and Vision!

Optometrists examine and treat disorders of the visual system and associated structures as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye. They also prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses if a patient is diagnosed with eye conditions like myopia, hyperopia, and presbyopia.

Nobody is more qualified to give you advice on how to take care of your eyes than your optometrist, so never self-diagnose. Even if it may seem like nothing is wrong with your eyes because you have good vision, you could still be at risk of serious eye diseases and be completely unaware.

As time has gone by, there has been an increase in misconceptions about eye care and vision. Unfortunately, these baseless, false facts are believed and are causing harm to people’s vision. To help you steer clear of these misconceptions about eye care and vision, Dr. Dickson Liu has debunked two of the most widely believed myths.

1. If your vision is good, there are no health issues with your eyes.

This is a myth. There are a lot of common eye diseases that affect your eyes but not your vision until it’s too late. For instance, glaucoma begins attacking your peripheral/side vision leaving your central vision completely normal until the later stages. Early detection here is the key.

2. Diabetic patients only need to get checked if they feel there is a problem.

When it comes to health issues - especially systemic ones such as diabetes- patients often feel they only need to see an optometrist if they ‘feel’ there is a problem. Unfortunately, diabetes is a time-dependent disease that will affect your eyes eventually despite having good glycemic control. Annual checkups with a retinal exam are an absolute must for any patient who has the disease for over ten years.

If you’re looking for an optometrist in North York, Midtown, Toronto, ON, contact Dr. Dickson Liu. I graduated from New England College of Optometry in Boston and am certified by the Board of Examiners of Optometry in Canada. I specialize in comprehensive eye exams, emergency eye care, laser vision co-management as well as assistance in OHIP coverage. To learn more about the eye care services we provide, please click here. If you have any questions, get in touch with us here.