“Don’t Have Kids If You Have Myopia”: Bengaluru Couple Shocked by So-Called Eye Specialist’s Remark

In a series of bizarre events, a Bengaluru couple recently went for an eye check-up, only to return home with unsolicited advice on marriage, children, and myopia.

Sharing his experience on one of the internet’s largest discussion forums, Reddit, the man called it one of the most uncomfortable visits he ever had.

‘Think and Take Consultation Before Conceiving’

He recounted what happened during the couple’s visit to Apollo Indiranagar for a routine eye check-up.

The consultation began with the doctor asking both husband and wife where they were from—something the man felt was completely unnecessary and unrelated to the check-up.

After examining his eyesight and diagnosing a cylindrical power of around -2.5, the doctor immediately warned him about excessive screen time, saying he could “land in serious trouble” if he didn’t cut back.

Calling it baseless fear-mongering, the man explained that he works in IT and spends about 10 hours a day in front of screens. On hearing this, the doctor allegedly advised him to quit his profession altogether, warning that continuing would be dangerous.

Things didn’t stop there. While examining the man’s wife, the eye specialist confirmed whether they were husband and wife. On receiving confirmation, the doctor immediately called him inside and said something the man described as “completely out of line,” “deeply unprofessional,” and “unscientific.”

Understandably disturbed by the incident, the couple questioned the professionalism and remarked that they were not there for genetic counselling.

In medical terms, myopia is described as nearsightedness or short-sightedness, where nearby objects appear clear but distant objects become blurry. It can be corrected by wearing glasses or using contact lenses.

He identified the individual as a BSc in Ophthalmic Technology with a year of experience, and urged hospitals to be more cautious while allowing such individuals to consult under their name.

Soon, his post went viral, and reactions from the general public, previous patients, and medical professionals started pouring in, supporting his stance.

Public Reactions

Reactions began with people pointing out how optometrists are different from ophthalmologists.

One user said, “He is probably just the guy that runs the tests and submits them to the actual doctor.”

Another user mentioned that while it’s a genuine degree, they are not qualified to give such advice. Their role typically ends at checking the patient’s vision and handing the results to a licensed doctor.

Others shared similar experiences, suggesting this may not have been an isolated case. One user wrote, “I also visited Apollo Indiranagar, and the same eye doctor recommended I switch careers due to screen time and suggested walking barefoot on grass to eliminate my need for glasses.”

Ultimately, the post reached hospital authorities, and they apologized for their staff’s behavior.

No Complaint Filed Yet

The man later edited his now-viral post to mention that hospital authorities had contacted him and apologized for the situation. While he initially planned to file a formal complaint, they requested him to remove the post and assured him they would look into the issue. However, he expressed doubt that any action would be taken against the staff member.

What It Shows

Incidents like this highlight the importance of maintaining professional boundaries and knowing where to draw the line between medical advice and personal intrusion, especially in environments meant to prioritize care and patient well-being.

(Rh/Pooja Bansal/MSM/SE)