Myopia (Nearsightedness) Information

Myopia, more commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive disorder of the eye. People who suffer from nearsightedness find that they can focus clearly on objects in their near vision, but have trouble seeing objects that are far away. Myopia is mostly harmless, but some forms of nearsightedness are progressive and can lead to more serious conditions. What causes myopia, and how can it be treated?

Symptoms of Myopia

Most cases of myopia begin in childhood, between the ages of eight and twelve. When kids squint, hold their books very close to their face, or have trouble picking out details at a distance, they might be nearsighted. Sufferers of any age might have frequent headaches and eye strain because their eyes struggle to focus on faraway objects.

Causes of Myopia

Nearsightedness is thought to be an inherited condition. That is, if your parents were nearsighted, chances are good that you will be, too. Nearsighted people have eyes that are more elongated or steeply curved than normal. This aberration in the shape of the eye interferes with the way light is refracted. Myopia causes incoming light to focus in front of the retina rather than right on it.

Myopia Detection

Eye exams are the best way to detect and diagnose nearsightedness. Ophthalmologists use eye charts to discern how good or how poor a patient's distant vision is. Most cases of myopia are mild to moderate, but there is a rare condition known as degenerative myopia that causes the eye to keep elongating over time. It can eventually lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and even blindness.

Myopia Treatments

Luckily, myopia is highly treatable. It can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, LASIK surgery, and other vision correction treatments. If you think you might be nearsighted, make an appointment at an ophthalmology clinic. There, you will receive a thorough examination, including a refraction assessment to determine your degree of nearsightedness.