Myopia Management
Have trouble seeing things clearly in the distance? There is a chance that myopia is to blame. Otherwise known as nearsightedness, myopia is the most common reason people need eyeglasses to see clearly, and, in some cases, the condition can be progressive. Below is a closer look at myopia and myopia control.
Myopia: Understanding Nearsightedness
In simple terms, myopia is a refractive error that causes an individual to see objects clearly when they are close, but things look blurry from a distance. For example, you may have problems seeing street signs but have no trouble reading a book.
Refractive errors occur when the parts of the eye are not properly focusing light that streams through the eye and into the retina. The refractive error with myopia is an issue with the shape of the lens of your eyes that affects how light bends when it streams through.
What Causes Myopia?
Myopia is one of the most common vision issues. It actually affects somewhere around one in four people in the United States. The causes are thought to primarily be genetics that affects the overall shape of the eye. This is one reason why children of parents who wear eyeglasses often end up needing glasses themselves. However, there may be other contributing factors as well. For example, some of the latest research suggests that children who don’t spend enough time outdoors may be more at risk.
Myopia Control: What to Expect with Diagnosis and Treatment
Myopia is diagnosed during a typical vision exam. You will be given a test that requires you to read characters on a chart, but the eye doctor will also use a retinoscope to detect refractive errors. A phoropter measures the refractive error level to determine which prescription eyeglasses you need to see clearly. Most commonly, myopia is controlled with corrective lenses, either glasses or contact lenses. However, refractive surgery may also be recommended.
Common FAQs About Myopia
Can Myopia go away on its own?
Myopia does not go away without treatment but can be corrected with treatments like refractive error surgery or orthokeratology. Most often, myopia progresses with age.
Is Myopia always a progressive issue?
Myopia may not always progress, but it usually does. This means that once you are diagnosed with nearsightedness, you may experience worsened vision as you get older.
What’s the difference between Myopia and Hyperopia?
Hyperopia is farsightedness. This basically means you see things more clearly when they are at a distance instead of close to your eyes.
