Signs of Eye Problems and Common Myths

Any changes in the appearance of your eyes or vision should be investigated further. Some examples include:

• Unusual trouble adjusting to dark rooms
• Difficulty focusing on near or distant objects
• Squinting or blinking due to sensitivity to light or glare
• Change in color of iris
• Red-rimmed, encrusted or swollen lids
• Recurrent pain in or around eyes
• Double vision
• Dark spot at the center of viewing
• Lines and edges appear distorted or wavy
• Excess tearing or "watery eyes"
• Dry eyes with itching or burning; and
• Seeing spots, ghost-like images.

The following may be indications of potentially serious problems that might require emergency medical attention:

• Sudden loss of vision in one eye
• Sudden hazy or blurred vision
• Flashes of light or black spots
• Halos or rainbows around light
• Curtain-like blotting out of vision
• Loss of peripheral (side) vision

If you notice any signs of potential eye problems, see an eye doctor for a complete eye exam. Even if you have no signs, regular eye exams are recommended—especially for those with some chronic health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Early detection and treatment can be the key to preventing sight loss.

Common Eye Myths

It's important to separate fact from fiction, especially when the topic is eyesight. Knowing how to take good care of your eyes is the first step to protecting your sight for a lifetime.

Myth: Failure to use proper glasses will hurt your eyes.

Fact: This statement does have some truth for a small number of people. Some children have eye problems that can be corrected, and it is important that they wear their glasses. While corrective glasses or contacts are needed to improve eyesight, using your eyes with or without glasses will not damage them further.

Myth: Reading in dim light can damage your eyes.

Fact: Reading in dim light can cause eye fatigue, but it will not hurt your eyes.

Myth: Eating carrots will improve your vision.

Fact: While it is true that carrots are high in Vitamin A, which is an essential vitamin for sight, only a small amount is necessary for good vision.

Myth: There's nothing you can do about preventing sight loss.

Fact: Regular eye exams and proper safety eyewear can save your sight.

Myth: An eye exam is only necessary if you're having problems.

Fact: Everyone should follow a proper eye health program that includes a regular eye exam, whether or not they're having any noticeable signs of problems.

Myth: Looking at computer screens for too long can damage your vision?

Fact: While complaints of eye fatigue and discomfort are common among computer users, these symptoms are not caused by the computer screen itself. Computer screens give off little or no harmful radiation (such as x-rays or UV rays). All levels of radiation from computer screens are below levels that can cause eye damage such as cataracts.