When it comes to eye health, myths are everywhere — from what we eat to how we see. In Lincoln, many patients visit us believing things they’ve heard for years about eyeglasses, reading in dim light, or even macular degeneration. While some of these beliefs have small kernels of truth, most are outdated or flat-out false. Understanding what’s fact and what’s fiction can help you take better care of your vision and encourage you to schedule a regular eye exam to ensure lifelong eye health.
Let’s set the record straight on some of the most common eye myths and myths about macular degeneration.
Myth 1: Eating Carrots Will Help You See in the Dark
Truth: Carrots are rich in Vitamin A, which supports healthy vision, but they won’t give you superhuman night vision. While Vitamin A deficiency can lead to poor night vision and other eye problems, most people get enough from a balanced diet that includes foods like leafy greens, eggs, and fish.
For individuals with early-stage macular degeneration, certain vitamin combinations may help slow the condition’s progression — but only under the direction of your eye doctor. Don’t start supplements without professional advice.
Myth 2: Wearing Glasses Makes Your Vision Worse
Truth: Wearing eyeglasses doesn’t weaken your eyes. Vision naturally changes with age, and conditions like myopia (nearsightedness) often worsen over time — especially in children and teens — regardless of whether you wear glasses.
Glasses simply correct how light enters your eyes, allowing for sharper focus. If your prescription changes, it’s due to natural eye development or aging, not your glasses.
Myth 3: Sitting Too Close to the TV Damages Your Eyes
Truth: Sitting close to the TV won’t harm your eyes, though it may cause temporary eye strain or fatigue. Children often sit close to screens because their eyes can focus on near objects better than adults can.
That said, spending too much time staring at screens without breaks can lead to digital eye strain — dry eyes, headaches, and blurred vision. The 20-20-20 rule (look 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) is an easy way to reduce discomfort.
Myth 4: Reading in Dim Light Can Damage Your Eyes
Truth: Reading in dim light can make your eyes tired, but it won’t cause long-term damage. Your pupils dilate to take in more light, which may cause strain or temporary discomfort. To avoid this, ensure proper lighting when reading or working for extended periods.
However, persistent strain could indicate that you need a regular eye exam — it might be time for an updated prescription.
Myth 5: Squinting Can Ruin Your Eyes
Truth: Squinting doesn’t harm your eyes. In fact, it’s your body’s natural way of improving focus by reducing the amount of light that enters your pupils. If you find yourself squinting often, though, it’s a sign that your vision may not be optimal and you might need eyeglasses or contacts.
Myth 6: There’s Nothing You Can Do to Prevent Vision Loss as You Age
Truth: Aging increases your risk for eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, but it’s absolutely possible to protect your eyesight. Lifestyle factors like quitting smoking, eating a nutrient-rich diet, wearing UV-protective sunglasses, and scheduling regular eye exams all play a huge role in glaucoma prevention and maintaining clear vision as you age.
Catching early signs of disease through routine exams allows for effective treatments that can preserve your sight for decades.
Myth 7: Macular Degeneration Is Inevitable with Age
Truth: While age-related macular degeneration (AMD) becomes more common with age, it’s not inevitable. Regular monitoring, a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, and protective habits like wearing sunglasses can greatly lower your risk.
If AMD runs in your family, talk to your eye doctor about preventive strategies and lifestyle changes that can safeguard your central vision.
The Truth About Eye Health: Prevention Starts with You
Many eye myths stem from a lack of understanding about how vision works. But one fact remains true — prevention and early detection are key. Regular visits to your eye doctor help identify potential issues before they become serious.
At Eyeson Group, we’re committed to protecting your vision through comprehensive exams, education, and customized eye care solutions. Whether you’re in Lincoln, Worcester, Randolph, or Cranston, our experienced team is here to provide the eye care you deserve.
Don’t let myths stand in the way of healthy vision. Schedule your regular eye exam today and keep your eyes clear, strong, and protected.