Introduction

Eye health is a subject full of widely held ideas—some accurate, many not. This article, written by specialists at Livasa Hospitals, aims to separate fact from fiction and present clear, practical guidance on common eye health myths. Whether you live in Mohali, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, Khanna or elsewhere in Punjab, understanding accurate eye health facts can help you protect your vision, avoid unnecessary worry, and seek appropriate care when needed. Vision is one of our most valued senses; according to the World Health Organization, an estimated 2.2 billion people worldwide have some form of visual impairment, and at least 1 billion of those cases could have been prevented or have yet to be addressed. In India, millions live with avoidable vision problems, and regional programmes in Punjab are actively expanding screening and treatment services to reduce preventable blindness.

This blog covers the most persistent vision myths and explains the medical facts behind them. We will focus on: screens and permanent vision loss, reading in dim light, whether wearing glasses weakens eyes, myths about nutrition (for example, carrots), cataracts and cataract surgery misconceptions, contact lens safety, paediatric eye health and lazy eye, glaucoma and macular degeneration myths, and practical advice on when to see an eye doctor in Punjab. Each section provides causes, symptoms, evidence-based treatments, and practical prevention tips so you can make informed decisions about your eye wellness.

At Livasa Hospitals (Livasa Mohali, Livasa Amritsar, Livasa Hoshiarpur, Livasa Khanna) our ophthalmology teams combine modern diagnostics, patient education, and community outreach to deliver accurate eye care facts and services tailored to patients in Punjab. If you have concerns or symptoms, call us at +91 80788 80788 or book an appointment online at https://www.livasahospitals.com/appointment. Early assessment is often the difference between simple treatment and irreversible vision loss.

why myths about eye health persist

Myths about eye health spread and persist for many reasons: historical beliefs, simple cause-effect thinking, misinterpretation of isolated experiences, the influence of advertising, and the speed of information on social media. Understanding why these myths remain popular helps patients and families distinguish between reliable guidance and misinformation. Visual problems often develop gradually, and the human brain prefers simple explanations. For example, because someone who spends hours on their phone experiences blurred vision at the end of the day, it’s easy to conclude screens permanently damage eyesight. In reality, many screen-related symptoms are temporary and related to eye strain, not structural harm.

Cultural sources also play a role. Traditional home remedies and generational advice—like “eat carrots to improve eyesight” or “reading in candlelight will ruin your eyes”—are shared without the scientific context that modern ophthalmology provides. Commercial messaging and product claims, particularly those sold as quick vision fixes, add to confusion. Additionally, medical concepts such as refractive error progression in children, or the difference between eye strain and true disease, are not always intuitive to non-medical audiences. This leads to conflation of symptoms (dryness, tired eyes, headaches) with permanent damage.

Another reason myths flourish is access: in rural parts of Punjab and India, access to regular eye screening can be limited. Without timely professional assessment, people attribute changes in vision to lifestyle or myths. Local screening programs and awareness campaigns in Punjab—often run by eye hospitals like Livasa—are bridging that gap. Trusted, local ophthalmologists help correct misinformation through school screenings, community camps, and clear patient education.

Finally, modern diagnostics and treatment options—ranging from contact lenses to LASIK and advanced cataract surgery—are sometimes oversimplified into "all-or-nothing" ideas. For example, people may falsely believe LASIK cures all eye problems forever. Dispelling myths requires consistent, empathetic communication from eye care professionals and credible public health messaging so patients know when to seek help and how to protect their vision effectively.

do screens cause permanent vision loss? myth vs fact

One of the most circulated vision myths is that prolonged screen time causes permanent loss of eyesight. This idea gained traction as digital device usage rose dramatically. What does the evidence show? Extended screen use commonly produces digital eye strain (also called computer vision syndrome), whose symptoms include dry eyes, blurry distance or near vision after prolonged focus, headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and difficulty refocusing between near and far objects. These symptoms are generally temporary and reversible with rest, ergonomic changes, and proper eye care. They do not indicate structural damage to the retina or optic nerve, which are the components involved in irreversible vision loss.

However, there is a noteworthy indirect connection between screen use and permanent refractive changes, particularly in children. High near-work activity, including screen time, is associated with increased risk of myopia (short-sightedness) progression in children. Epidemiological studies indicate rising myopia prevalence worldwide, partly driven by lifestyle changes with less outdoor time and more near work. Myopia can increase the lifetime risk of sight-threatening conditions such as retinal detachment and myopic maculopathy when severe. That means controlling excessive near work and encouraging outdoor activities are important preventive measures.

Practical steps to limit digital eye strain and reduce risks:

• 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Maintain proper screen distance (about arm’s length) and adjust brightness and contrast.
• Ensure regular blinking; consider artificial tears if dryness persists.
• Encourage outdoor time for children (at least 1–2 hours daily) to reduce myopia risk.
• Have routine eye examinations—especially for children—to monitor refractive error progression.

At Livasa Hospitals in Punjab, our eye specialists provide evidence-based advice on reducing screen-related eye strain and monitoring children’s eye development. If you’re near Mohali, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, or Khanna, schedule an evaluation at Livasa Hospitals appointment or call +91 80788 80788.

reading in dim light damages eyes: separating strain from permanent harm

Many parents warn children that reading in dim light will permanently ruin their eyesight. This concern is understandable—reading in poor light often leads to discomfort. The medical reality is that reading in dim light causes eye strain and temporary symptoms such as difficulty focusing, headaches, and watery eyes, but it does not cause permanent structural damage to the eye. The eye’s optical components (cornea, lens, retina) tolerate varied lighting conditions; short-term strain does not equate to long-term harm.

Nevertheless, reading in poor light often forces the visual system to work harder. This can exacerbate symptoms in people with existing uncorrected refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism) and may make early visual problems more noticeable. For children, persistent near-work under dim light combined with extended near tasks can contribute to myopia progression over time—especially when combined with little outdoor activity. Hence, while dim light itself isn’t the cause of irreversible damage, it contributes to conditions that may accelerate visual problems if other risk factors are present.

Practical recommendations for better reading habits:

• Use adequate, well-directed lighting (prefer daylight or cool white light that illuminates the page without glare).
• Position reading materials to avoid shadows—task lamps with adjustable heads work well.
• Check for uncorrected refractive error—books or screens that seem too small or blurry may indicate the need for glasses.
• Encourage breaks every 30–45 minutes to relax the eyes and change focus.

If you notice persistent squinting, headaches with reading, or declining academic performance in children in Amritsar, Mohali, Hoshiarpur, or Khanna, an eye checkup at Livasa Hospitals can diagnose underlying refractive errors and provide corrective measures. Early correction reduces strain and improves comfort and learning outcomes.

wearing glasses weakens eyes: understanding refractive development

A common concern among patients is that wearing glasses will make the eyes “lazy” or that dependence on spectacles increases. This is a misconception. Glasses simply correct the optical error of the eye (myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism) by focusing light on the retina correctly. They do not change the physiology of the eye or cause it to become weaker. In many cases, wearing the correct prescription actually helps normal visual development—especially in children—because clear vision is essential for learning and binocular vision development.

Some reasons the myth persists:

• If a child’s refractive error progresses after getting glasses, families may incorrectly assume the glasses caused the progression. In reality, many refractive errors naturally progress during growth and are influenced by genetics and environment.
• People often confuse dependence with damage—needing glasses to see clearly is not evidence of weakening; it is management of an existing refractive condition.

Management strategies and alternatives:

• Children: timely prescription of appropriate spectacles for significant refractive errors is important to prevent amblyopia (lazy eye) and ensure normal visual development.
• Adults: glasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgery (when appropriate) are all valid options. Each has advantages and trade-offs—your ophthalmologist will guide you based on lifestyle, ocular health, and expectations.

It's important to have regular eye examinations, particularly for children and adolescents in Punjab, because early detection and correction are crucial. Livasa Hospitals' ophthalmologists in Mohali and Amritsar frequently counsel families to follow prescribed spectacle use and monitor changes; this approach helps mitigate refractive progression and improve visual performance rather than weakening the eye.

carrots and nutrition: can diet improve vision?

The message that "eating carrots will make your eyesight perfect" has a kernel of truth but is exaggerated. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A—an essential nutrient for maintaining healthy corneal epithelium and proper function of the retina’s photoreceptor cells. Severe vitamin A deficiency can lead to xerophthalmia and night blindness, and in extreme cases, permanent corneal damage. However, for the general population with adequate nutrition, eating more carrots will not significantly improve sharpness of vision or reverse refractive errors such as myopia or hyperopia.

Other nutrients play important roles in eye health:

• Lutein and zeaxanthin—found in leafy greens—support macular health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
• Omega-3 fatty acids—found in fish—help ocular surface health and may reduce dry eye symptoms.
• Vitamins C and E and certain minerals—form part of antioxidant support for the retina and lens.

For patients concerned about AMD or cataracts, evidence supports dietary patterns rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish, rather than relying on single foods. In patients at high risk of AMD, specific supplements (AREDS2 formulation) have been shown to slow disease progression in clinical trials; these are prescription decisions best made with an ophthalmologist.

In Punjab, where diet varies across communities, Livasa Hospitals provides nutritional counselling for patients with ocular conditions. We emphasize balanced diets as part of holistic eye care—carrots are helpful within this context but are not a cure-all. If you are worried about night vision changes or dry eyes, visit Livasa Mohali or Livasa Amritsar for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized dietary advice.

cataracts: myths about blindness and surgery

Cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens and remains the leading cause of reversible blindness worldwide. The myth that cataracts inevitably lead to permanent blindness ignores the fact that cataract surgery is a proven, safe, and effective treatment that restores vision for millions each year. In many parts of India, cataract-related vision loss persists due to lack of access, awareness, or fear of surgery. In Punjab, community screening and outreach by hospitals like Livasa have helped increase timely treatment.

Common cataract myths and the facts:

• Myth: Cataracts should be allowed to “ripen” before surgery. Fact: Modern cataract surgery can be safely performed once visual impairment affects daily activities—delaying surgery increases fall risk and reduces quality of life.
• Myth: Cataract surgery is highly risky. Fact: With modern phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation, cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed and safe procedures in ophthalmology with excellent outcomes.
• Myth: Surgery restores perfect vision in all cases. Fact: Outcomes depend on ocular health, presence of glaucoma or macular disease, and accurate biometry; realistic expectations are discussed preoperatively.

Comparison of common cataract surgery approaches:

Cost considerations in Punjab often drive decisions. Cataract surgery cost varies by technique, choice of intraocular lens, and hospital. Livasa Hospitals offers transparent counselling about affordable cataract surgery options at centres including Livasa Mohali and Livasa Amritsar with package estimates provided after clinical evaluation. Public health schemes and subsidised camps also help reduce expense for eligible patients.

contact lenses, lasik and other refractive surgery myths

Contact lenses and refractive surgery are common targets for myths. Patients worry contact lenses cause eye infections inevitably, or that LASIK always leads to dry eyes or poor outcomes. The truth: when properly fitted and managed, contact lenses are safe for millions and do not inherently damage the eye. Risks increase with poor hygiene, overnight wear with non-approved lenses, and failure to follow replacement schedules. Education about lens care, regular follow-up, and professional fitting greatly reduces complications.

LASIK and other refractive surgeries (PRK, SMILE) are effective ways to reduce dependence on spectacles for eligible candidates. Myths persist that laser surgery is experimental or that it permanently weakens the eye. Modern LASIK has an extensive safety track record when performed by experienced surgeons with appropriate preoperative screening. Not everyone is a candidate—patients with thin corneas, severe dry eye, uncontrolled diabetes, or certain corneal irregularities may be advised against laser surgery.

Comparison table: LASIK, PRK, SMILE

For contact lens wearers and anyone considering refractive surgery in Punjab, Livasa Hospitals provides pre-op evaluation, custom fitting, and follow-up care. Our specialists in Livasa Mohali and Livasa Amritsar counsel patients about realistic expectations, dry-eye management, and safe lens hygiene. If you experience redness, pain, reduced vision, or discharge with contact lenses, seek urgent care to avoid complications.

glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration: myths and facts

Glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are two serious eye diseases often surrounded by misunderstanding. Many believe glaucoma always causes pain or that AMD affects peripheral vision first. In truth, glaucoma is frequently asymptomatic in early stages and is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it causes gradual, irreversible peripheral vision loss before central vision is affected. Regular intraocular pressure checks, optic nerve imaging (OCT), and visual field testing are required for early detection. Risk increases with age, family history, and certain systemic conditions like hypertension and diabetes.

AMD primarily affects central vision and is the leading cause of central vision loss in older adults. Myths include the idea that AMD is untreatable. While there is no cure for dry AMD, nutritional interventions (AREDS2 formulation) can slow progression in certain patients. Wet AMD has highly effective treatments—intravitreal anti-VEGF injections—that can stabilise and often improve vision if started early.

Key signs and when to seek care:

• Glaucoma: progressive peripheral field loss, difficulty with night driving, tunnel vision—often without pain; checkups recommended for adults over 40 and earlier if family history exists.
• AMD: distortion (metamorphopsia), blurred central vision, difficulty reading—use an Amsler grid at home and seek prompt evaluation if changes occur.

In Punjab, regular screening programmes and outreach by hospitals such as Livasa help identify glaucoma and AMD early. If you are over 40, have a family history of glaucoma, or notice any visual distortions, book an appointment at Livasa Hospitals (Mohali, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, Khanna) for targeted screening and personalised treatment planning.

children's eye health and lazy eye: myths and early interventions

Children’s eye health presents its own set of myths—many parents assume that children will "outgrow" vision problems or that amblyopia ("lazy eye") is untreatable after a young age. Evidence shows early detection and intervention are critical. Amblyopia develops when vision in one eye is reduced because the brain and the eye are not working together properly during development. Causes include significant uncorrected refractive error, strabismus (misaligned eyes), or visual deprivation (such as cataract) in early life.

The earlier amblyopia is treated, the better the chance for visual recovery. Treatment strategies include correcting refractive error with spectacles, patching the stronger eye to encourage use of the weaker eye, or atropine penalisation. In some cases, vision therapy or surgery for strabismus is indicated. While treatment is most effective in early childhood (before age 7–8), older children and even teenagers can benefit from appropriate therapies; it is incorrect to say treatment is impossible after early childhood.

Common signs parents should watch for in Punjab and elsewhere:

• Squinting, frequent eye rubbing, or tilting the head to see
• Difficulty reading or poor school performance
• One eye appearing to drift inward or outward
• Closing one eye to see better or complaints of blurred vision

School eye screening programmes in Punjab have shown that up to 10–15% of children may have uncorrected refractive errors requiring spectacles. Livasa Hospitals offers paediatric eye clinics and school vision screening in Mohali and Amritsar, with customised amblyopia treatment plans and family education. If you suspect a problem, early assessment improves long-term outcomes and helps children reach their full learning potential.

practical tips: protecting eyesight and when to see an eye doctor in punjab

Beyond debunking myths, practical everyday measures help protect eyesight. These include:

• Regular eye exams: Adults over 40 should have checks every 1–2 years; patients with risk factors (diabetes, hypertension, family history of glaucoma) require more frequent assessments.
• Protective eyewear: Use safety goggles for hazardous work and UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors to reduce cumulative sun exposure.
• Healthy lifestyle: Control blood sugar and blood pressure, maintain a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, and avoid smoking—smoking increases risk of AMD and other ocular disease.
• Screen hygiene: Apply the 20-20-20 rule, ensure ergonomic setups, and use appropriate ambient lighting.

When to see an eye doctor in Punjab:

• Sudden decrease in vision, flashes of light, or new floaters—seek urgent assessment.
• Persistent redness, pain, photophobia, or discharge—may indicate infection or inflammation requiring prompt treatment.
• Gradual but progressive vision loss, distortion, or difficulty with daily tasks—book a comprehensive eye exam.
• Children with suspected vision problems or school performance issues—early screening can be transformative.

Livasa Hospitals provides accessible eye care across Punjab with specialty services at Livasa Mohali, Livasa Amritsar, Livasa Hoshiarpur and Livasa Khanna. We aim to be the best eye hospital in Punjab for patient education and evidence-based treatment. For affordable checkups, ask about our routine eye check packages and subsidies for eligible patients. Typical basic eye checkup costs in private facilities in Punjab vary based on services; Livasa offers transparent pricing and will advise you of exact charges after triage. For appointments, call +91 80788 80788 or visit livsahospitals.com/appointment.

conclusion and takeaways

Vision health myths often mix partial truths with misunderstandings. The main takeaways from Livasa Hospitals’ ophthalmology experts are: screen use typically causes reversible eye strain rather than permanent loss; reading in dim light creates discomfort but not irreversible damage; wearing glasses corrects vision and does not weaken the eyes; nutrition supports eye health but is not a substitute for medical correction; and cataract and refractive surgery are safe and effective when performed by experienced teams. Prevention, timely screening, and evidence-based treatment are key to maintaining lifelong vision.

If you live in Punjab—whether Mohali, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, Khanna or surrounding districts—and want accurate, localised eye health education, Livasa Hospitals’ ophthalmology teams are available to help. Contact us at +91 80788 80788 or book online at https://www.livasahospitals.com/appointment. Early action and reliable information are the best defenses against preventable vision loss.