Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. This condition occurs when the shape of the eye causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. While myopia can be managed effectively, regular eye exams and corrective lenses are required to ensure clear vision.

What is Myopia?

Myopia occurs when the eyeball is too long, or the cornea is too curved, preventing light from focusing directly on the retina. As a result, people with myopia have difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, while objects up close may still be in focus. Myopia often develops in childhood or adolescence, and while it tends to stabilize in early adulthood, it can worsen over time in some individuals.

High Myopia

High myopia is a more severe form of nearsightedness in which the eye grows longer than it should, leading to a significant degree of vision impairment. People with high myopia are not only at risk for more severe vision problems but also for complications such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.

Low Myopia

Low myopia is a milder degree of nearsightedness, typically characterized by a prescription of -3.00 diopters or less. While people with low myopia still struggle to see distant objects clearly, their condition is less severe than high myopia.

Myopia Symptoms

The most common symptom of myopia is difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, such as road signs, blackboards, or television screens. People with myopia may squint frequently to try and improve their focus on distant objects. Other symptoms include:

• Eye strain
• Headaches
• Needing to sit closer to the television or hold books closer

Children with myopia may have trouble seeing the board at school or sitting far away in class. If you or your child experience any of these symptoms, scheduling an eye exam to check for myopia is essential.

What Causes Myopia?

The exact cause of myopia is still unknown, but it is believed to be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. If one or both parents are nearsighted, their children are more likely to develop myopia. Environmental factors like prolonged close-up activities like reading, using computers, or looking at digital screens for extended periods may also develop myopia.

Diagnosing Myopia

Diagnosing myopia is straightforward and involves a comprehensive eye examination. During the exam, an optometrist or ophthalmologist will test your ability to see objects at different distances and use a phoropter and autorefractor to measure how light focuses on your retina. The doctor will determine your prescription strength based on how your eyes focus light.

Treatment for Myopia

Myopia can be effectively treated with corrective lenses such as glasses or contact lenses. The strength of the prescription will depend on the degree of nearsightedness. Refractive surgery options like LASIK may be considered for more permanent correction to reshape the cornea and improve vision.

Schedule Your Appointment

Total Eye Care offers personalized treatment options to manage and correct myopia, ensuring clear vision and optimal eye health. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward improving your vision and quality of life.

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