Vision Myths Debunked: Everything You Need To Know

Think you know the truth about eyecare? You might be surprised.

For generations, dated perceptions, first-hand accounts, and social media have fueled misinformation about vision, making it difficult to separate eye facts from fiction. From being warned that sitting too close to the TV will ruin your eyesight to believing that eating carrots guarantees perfect sight, these myths continue to spread – often leading to unnecessary concerns and poor eye care habits.

But here’s the good news: modern optometry and scientific research have debunked many of these long-standing beliefs. It’s time to separate fact from fiction.

We’re here to set the record straight on some of the most common vision myths so that you can make informed choices about your eye health. Read on!

Does wearing glasses make your eyes weaker?

Some people think wearing glasses makes their vision worse over time, but this is a common misconception. Glasses don’t weaken your eyesight – they simply correct vision issues, making it easier to see clearly.

Changes in eyesight are usually a natural part of aging or related to specific health conditions—they are not caused by your glasses. Using the right prescription glasses actually helps reduce eye strain and make your daily life easier.

If your lenses aren’t delivering the clarity you need, it’s easy to upgrade. You can even replace your lenses without buying a new pair of frames, keeping things simple and affordable.

Can sitting too close to the TV damage your eyes?

Remember when you were a child, and someone said sitting too close to the TV would make your eyes square? Here’s the truth: being too close to screens may cause temporary discomfort or strain, but it definitely won’t make your eyes square!

Spending too much time staring at screens can lead to digital eye fatigue, especially for children. Over time, these habits may contribute to the development of nearsightedness, which is when you can’t see distant objects clearly. If excessive screen time is a concern, blue light glasses can help make things easier on your eyes. Incorporating blue light lenses into your glasses can mean significant relief during screen-heavy days!

Will reading in dim light affect your eyesight?

Another common vision myth is that reading in low light can affect your eyes. While low light can lead to short-term eye strain or fatigue because your eyes might have to work harder to focus, it doesn’t result in permanently affecting your vision.

Try keeping your space well lit, and if small print is making reading it difficult, consider getting your eyes checked first with your trusted eye doctor and opt to upgrade your glasses with near-vision lenses if recommended.

If your vision seems fine, do you need an eye exam?

If your vision seems fine, do you need an eye exam? Absolutely! Many eye conditions, like glaucoma or macular degeneration, can develop without obvious early symptoms. Regular eye exams allow optometrists to detect potential concerns early and diagnose vision correction issues that require you to wear glasses, making treatment more effective when caught at an earlier stage.

If it turns out your prescription has changed, don’t worry. At Replacement Lens Express, we make it easy and affordable to update your lenses so you can keep your eyes healthy and your vision crystal clear.

Are sunglasses only for summer?

Another common misconception is that sunglasses are only needed on bright, sunny days. However, the real eye facts show that UV rays can reach your eyes all year round – even through clouds on bright but overcast days. Prolonged exposure to these rays can lead to the development of eye conditions that cause vision loss later in life, including cataracts and macular degeneration.

To protect your eyes, it’s important to wear UV-blocking sunglasses consistently, regardless of the season. We offer lenses that shield UV light, along with photochromic and polarized options for added protection and comfort.

Are carrots the best food for perfect sight?

A popular belief is that eating carrots can drastically improve your eyesight. While carrots are rich in vitamin A, which supports eye health, a well-rounded diet with omega-3s, lutein, zeaxanthin and zinc can help boost your vision even more. Foods like salmon, spinach, and pumpkin seeds are excellent sources of these nutrients, helping to maintain overall eye health.

Think of carrots as just one part of a larger picture. The more variety you add to your plate, the more your eyes will thank you!

Does a stronger prescription mean better vision?

Many people believe that a stronger prescription will give them better eyesight, but that’s not the case. Glasses should be tailored to your specific prescription. Using lenses that are too strong can cause discomfort, such as dizziness, blurred vision, or headaches.

If your current lenses feel off or uncomfortable, we make it easy to replace them with custom prescription glasses lenses that accurately meet your vision needs based on a valid prescription, ensuring you see clearly and with ease.

Is vision loss unpreventable?

Here’s a vision myth we can happily bust: vision loss is not always inevitable. While some changes, like difficulty reading small text, are a normal part of aging, up to 80% of sight loss can be prevented through early detection and consistent care. Regular eye exams are your best friend when it comes to catching concerns early and keeping your eyes healthy for years to come.

Conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration can often be managed or slowed down with the right treatment. Early action makes all the difference.

See the difference today

Taking care of your vision is easier than it seems. Whether you need new lenses, protection from UV rays, or relief from digital strain, we’re here to help.

Why wait? Take the first step towards clearer, more comfortable vision today. Explore our collection of stylish, high-quality prescription glasses and replacement lenses online. Your eyes deserve the best care!