Does Watching Netflix Hurt Your Eyes? The Truth About Screen Time and Eye Health
Binge-watching your favorite shows on Netflix has become a normal part of modern life. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing evening catching up on an entire season or turning on cartoons for the kids during the day, screens are everywhere. But have you ever wondered what all that screen time is doing to your eyes?
Many myths surround watching TV, staring at screens, and eye health—some of which have been around for decades. But how much of what you’ve heard is actually true? Let’s separate fact from fiction when it comes to screen time and your vision.
Debunking the Myths About Screens and Eye Health
1. Sitting Too Close to the TV or Screens Will Not Permanently Damage Your Eyes
You may have heard this from your parents as a child: “Don’t sit too close to the TV, or you’ll ruin your eyesight!” But in reality, sitting close to a screen does not cause permanent eye damage.
However, it can cause temporary eye strain, which may lead to symptoms like:
- Headaches
- Dry eyes
- Blurry vision
- Eye fatigue
If you experience any of these, it’s a sign that your eyes need a break—not that your vision is being permanently harmed.
2. Watching TV in the Dark Won’t Ruin Your Eyes, But It Can Cause Discomfort
Another common myth is that watching TV in the dark can permanently damage your eyesight. This isn’t true, but it can cause temporary discomfort and strain.
Your eyes work harder to adjust to the contrast between the bright screen and the dark surroundings, which can lead to:
- Increased eye fatigue
- More blinking to stay lubricated
- Potential headaches
A simple fix? Keep some ambient lighting on while watching TV or using screens in the dark to help ease the strain on your eyes.
3. Binge-Watching Netflix Won’t Cause Permanent Damage—But Screen Time Still Matters
You don’t need to cancel your Netflix subscription just yet. Spending hours in front of a screen won’t cause permanent vision problems, but excessive screen time can contribute to digital eye strain.
Common symptoms of digital eye strain include:
- Dry, irritated eyes
- Difficulty focusing
- Blurry vision
- Neck and shoulder pain
To prevent discomfort, follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps relax your eye muscles and reduces strain.
Where Did These Myths Come From?
Many of the concerns about TVs and eye damage date back to the 1960s, when some early televisions were found to emit higher-than-normal X-rays. General Electric (GE) issued a consumer warning, which fueled the belief that TV screens could harm eyesight.
However, after further testing, TVs were deemed safe, and modern screens pose no radiation threat to your eyes. Even though the myth was debunked decades ago, it still lingers today.
The Real Issue: Eye Strain from Screens
While screens won’t permanently damage your vision, eye strain is real. This can happen whether you’re:
- Binge-watching Netflix
- Working long hours on a computer
- Reading in poor lighting
- Staring at a screen without blinking often enough
Eye strain isn’t permanent, but it can be uncomfortable. If you experience frequent headaches, dry eyes, or blurry vision after using screens, it may be time to visit an optometrist in Edmonton for an eye exam.
Protect Your Vision While Enjoying Screen Time
If you wear prescription glasses, make sure you wear them while watching TV or using digital screens. This helps prevent unnecessary strain. If you’re unsure whether your prescription is up to date, an eye exam in Edmonton can help determine if you need adjustments.
Other ways to protect your eyes include:
- Adjusting screen brightness to a comfortable level
- Using blue light filters on glasses or screens
- Taking regular breaks to rest your eyes
Schedule an Eye Exam at The Optometrists’ Clinic Edmonton
If you experience frequent eye strain, headaches, or vision changes, it’s important to check in with an optometrist. The team at The Optometrists’ Clinic Edmonton is here to help you find the right eyewear, update your prescription, and keep your vision healthy.
Don’t let eye strain ruin your next Netflix binge. Book an eye exam today and make sure your eyes are getting the care they need!
