Myth busting: eyes and vision

Myths surrounding eyes and vision are prolific across all cultures and many are centuries old! They have stemmed from lack of knowledge, an apparent correlation between certain lifestyle choices and age, as well as from parents wanting to manage children watching too much TV!  Here are a few of the myths we’ve heard, and the truth around each myth. 

Reading in dim light damages your eyes

While reading in low light may cause eye strain and discomfort, it won’t permanently damage your eyes. However, it can make it harder to focus and may lead to temporary vision problems. This myth probably come from the fact that your eyes can feel sore and tired after long periods of work in dim conditions, but this won’t cause a permanent loss of sight on its own.

Carrots improve your vision

Carrots are a good source of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health, but consuming large amounts won’t enhance your vision beyond what’s normal for your eyesight. We assume this myth came from the very real fact that a lack of Vitamin A in the diet can cause vision problems, but eating carrots can’t improve your eyes or fix existing eye conditions. Good nutrition overall supports healthy eyes and this should always factor into your eye health.

Eating certain foods can cure vision problems

While a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for eye health, there’s no research to suggest that specific foods can cure vision problems.

Staring at screens will damage your eyes

While prolonged screen time can cause eye strain and discomfort, it’s not known to cause permanent damage to vision. Taking breaks, adjusting screen settings, and using proper lighting can help alleviate strain. There is some evidence emerging that extended screen use may induce some short-sightedness, so it is always best to follow the 20-20-20 rule, which is: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet (6m) away for at least 20 seconds.

Rubbing your eyes can improve vision

Rubbing your eyes might provide temporary relief from itching or fatigue, but it won’t improve your vision. In fact, excessive rubbing can lead to irritation and potential damage to the cornea. If your eyes are sore and itchy, try some of the techniques recommended for the relief of sore eyes and see your eyecare professional if symptoms persist.

Wearing someone else’s glasses or cheap glasses can damage your eyes

While wearing glasses that aren’t prescribed for your eyes may cause discomfort and distortion, it’s unlikely to cause permanent damage. Ready-made or cheaper glasses can often be an economical option when you need a temporary solution (in the case of lost or broken glasses). However, it is recommended you see your eye care professional to have a thorough vision examination and receive your personalised prescription. This will help ensure you don’t develop symptoms of eye fatigue and help you see at a level optimised for you.

Eyesight deteriorates with age no matter what

While it’s true that many people experience changes in their vision as they age, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting your eyes from UV rays and injuries, and getting regular eye check-ups can help preserve vision as you get older.

Wearing glasses weakens your eyes

This myth suggests that wearing glasses makes your eyes reliant on them and causes them to weaken over time. The truth is glasses correct refractive errors, allowing you to see clearly, but they don’t weaken your eyes. This myth is likely to have stemmed from the need for reading glasses as people age. This phenomenon is called ‘presbyopia’ and most people notice it around the age of 40. Presbyopia progresses as we age, and is a completely natural part of the aging process. Presbyopia is a gradual loss of the eye’s ability to focus on objects up close. This happens because the lens of the eye becomes less flexible over time, making it harder for the eye to adjust and focus on nearby objects.

Colour blindness means seeing everything in black and white

This is one of the most prevalent myths. In reality, very few people with colour blindness see the world entirely in black and white. Instead, they typically have difficulty distinguishing between certain colours, such as red and green or blue and yellow. Click here for more details on colour vision.

These myths often arise from misconceptions or misunderstandings about how the eyes function and what factors contribute to vision health. While some contain kernels of truth, they’re often exaggerated or misinterpreted. It’s always best to consult with an eye care professional for accurate information about maintaining good vision and eye health.

For more information

Always speak to your GP and eye care professional about the best treatment options for you.

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