Remember the thrill of sneaking an extra episode on your tablet—only to be shooed away by a parent warning you’d “ruin your eyes”? We’ve all grown up on well-meaning advice, but modern research tells a different story. It’s time to settle the score on ten of the most common eye care myths so you can see clearly and confidently.
1. Myth: Screen Time Can’t Hurt Your Eyes
Fact: Too much time on computers, tablets, or phones causes Digital Eye Strain (Computer Vision Syndrome). Symptoms include headaches, blurry vision, dry eyes, and neck pain. The American Optometric Association recommends the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reset your focus and reduce strain.
2. Myth: Over-the-Counter Reading Glasses Work Just as Well
Fact: Drugstore readers address age-related near vision changes, but don’t correct astigmatism or ensure your optical centers match your pupils. A comprehensive eye exam and prescription lenses guarantee true clarity and can reveal underlying issues like glaucoma or macular changes.
3. Myth: Sunlight Won’t Affect Your Eyes
Fact: Ultraviolet (UV) exposure accelerates cataract formation, pterygia growth, and—even rarely—ocular surface cancers. The American Academy of Ophthalmology advises wearing 100% UV-blocking sunglasses and a broad-brim hat whenever you’re outdoors, even on cloudy days.
4. Myth: Swallowing a Contact Lens in Your Mouth Is Safe in Emergencies
Fact: Saliva and unwashed hands harbor bacteria that can cause serious eye infections. Always carry a spare lens case, sterile saline solution, and backup glasses in your bag, car, or desk.
5. Myth: You Only Need Eye Exams in Your 20s and 60s
Fact: After age 40, you’re at increasing risk for cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration. Most adults should schedule a comprehensive eye exam every 1–2 years, or more often if you have diabetes, a family history of eye disease, or wear corrective lenses.
6. Myth: Only Boys Can Be Color-Blind
Fact: Red-green color vision deficiency is X-linked, affecting about 8% of males and 0.5% of females, but women can still inherit and express color-vision issues. If you notice trouble distinguishing hues, an eye care specialist can administer simple tests and discuss genetics.
7. Myth: You Can’t Overuse Lubricating Drops
Fact: Preservative-free artificial tears are safe, but redness-relief drops contain vasoconstrictors that may worsen irritation if used daily. If you reach for drops constantly, discuss dry eye treatment options, like prescription eyedrops or in-office therapies to address the root cause.
8. Myth: Carrots Give You Perfect Vision
Fact: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A, essential for corneal health and low-light vision. However, no food can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. A balanced diet supports eye health, but corrective lenses or refractive surgery are needed for most refractive errors.
9. Myth: Crossing Your Eyes Will Lock Them That Way
Fact: Briefly crossing your eyes doesn’t override the coordinated muscle action that keeps them aligned. True eye-crossing (strabismus) that occurs without effort requires medical evaluation, but voluntary crossing poses no lasting harm.
10. Myth: Sitting Too Close to the TV Damages Your Eyes
Fact: Modern TVs emit negligible radiation. While poor posture and prolonged viewing can lead to eye strain and neck discomfort, they won’t injure your eyes. Maintain a comfortable distance (20–40 inches), ensure proper lighting, and take breaks every 30–60 minutes.
See Clearly—Myth-Free Vision
Now that these ten common eye care myths have been busted, you know which habits safeguard your eyes and which old wives’ tales you can safely ignore. Ready for a fact-based checkup? Schedule your comprehensive eye exam today to get personalized recommendations from our board-certified specialists.