Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common eye condition where close objects are seen clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. It happens when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.
- What is Myopia?
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a vision condition where distant objects are blurry while close-up objects remain clear due to improper focusing of light in the eye. - Symptoms of Myopia
Common symptoms include difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, squinting, eye strain, and headaches. Children may struggle to see the blackboard in school, and adults may have trouble with road signs while driving. - Causes of Myopia
Myopia is usually inherited and can develop during childhood. Spending long periods on close-up tasks like reading or using digital devices may also contribute to its progression. - Diagnosis of Myopia
An eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist can diagnose myopia by measuring how well you see at various distances using a refraction test. - Treatment for Myopia
Myopia can be corrected with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. Laser eye surgeries like LASIK or PRK are also options for permanent correction. - Types of Myopia
- Simple Myopia: Common form, typically stable after childhood or early adulthood.
- High Myopia: A more severe form that increases the risk of eye complications like retinal detachment or glaucoma.
- Myopia Control
Methods such as wearing multifocal lenses, using atropine eye drops, and practicing regular outdoor activities may help slow the progression of myopia in children. - Myopia vs. Hypermetropia
Myopia affects distance vision (making far objects blurry), while hypermetropia (farsightedness) affects near vision (making close objects blurry). - Living with Myopia
Most individuals with myopia can manage the condition effectively with corrective lenses or surgery, enabling clear vision and preventing further complications.