When it comes to your eyes, you’ve probably heard all kinds of advice from friends, family, or even old wives’ tales. But not everything you hear about eye health is actually true.
At St. Lucie Eye, we believe in helping you take care of your vision with confidence. That starts with separating fact from fiction. Let’s clear up some of the most common eye myths.
Myth #1: Sitting too close to the TV will ruin your eyes
The truth: Sitting close might make your eyes feel tired, but it won’t cause permanent damage.
This idea started back in the early days of television, when some sets gave off radiation. Today’s TVs are safe. Sitting close may cause temporary eye strain, but it won’t hurt your eyes long-term.
Tip: Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It helps your eyes relax.
Myth #2: Reading in dim light will damage your eyes
The truth: Dim lighting won’t harm your eyes, but it can make reading more difficult and uncomfortable.
Your eyes have to work harder to focus in low light, which can cause strain or headaches—but not permanent damage.
Tip: Use a reading lamp or sit near natural light. If you’re squinting often, it might be time to update your glasses.
Myth #3: Wearing glasses makes your vision worse
The truth: Glasses don’t weaken your eyes—they help you see more clearly.
Your vision isn’t getting “lazy.” Glasses correct your current prescription but don’t change the health of your eyes.
Vision naturally changes with age. For example, needing reading glasses in your 40s is normal.
Tip: Stay on top of regular eye exams to keep your prescription accurate and avoid unnecessary eye strain.
Myth #4: If you cross your eyes, they’ll stay that way
The truth: Crossing your eyes on purpose is harmless.
This myth likely started as a way to stop kids from making silly faces. In reality, crossing your eyes temporarily won’t make them stick.
The real condition where the eyes misalign is called strabismus, which may require treatment.
Tip: If you or a loved one notices an eye drifting—especially in children—schedule an eye exam.
Myth #5: Carrots will fix your vision
The truth: Carrots support eye health but won’t improve poor vision or reverse vision loss.
Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which helps maintain healthy eyes, but they can’t correct your prescription.
This myth gained traction during World War II, when it was said that pilots had great night vision thanks to carrots. In truth, radar technology was responsible.
Tip: Eat a balanced diet with:
- Dark leafy greens (like spinach)
- Fish with omega-3s (like salmon)
- Fruits high in vitamin C
Nutrition supports your eyes, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle.
Myth #6: Eye exams aren’t necessary unless something is wrong
The truth: Many serious eye conditions have no early symptoms.
Diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease can develop silently. You may not notice anything until damage is already done.
Tip: Schedule a comprehensive eye exam once a year, even if your vision seems fine. Early detection can help preserve your sight.
Myth #7: Losing your vision is just a normal part of aging
The truth: Some age-related changes are normal, but serious vision loss should not be accepted as inevitable.
Yes, you may need reading glasses or experience slower focusing. But many causes of significant vision loss are preventable or treatable if caught early.
Tip: Watch for warning signs like:
- Blurry vision
- Trouble seeing at night
- Floaters or flashes of light
Don’t assume these are just signs of getting older—get them checked out.
Don’t Let Myths Put Your Vision at Risk
Your eyes deserve real care, not outdated myths. At St. Lucie Eye, we provide clear, honest information so you can make smart choices about your health.
If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, now is a great time to schedule one. Whether you’re in Fort Pierce or Port St. Lucie, our team is here to help you see your best at every stage of life.
Book Your Eye Exam Today
Call us or request an appointment online. Your eyes will thank you!