Myopia Nearsightedness
Services -> Eye Conditions -> Myopia Nearsightedness
What is Myopia?
Myopia is a refractive error in which the patient is unable to see far away objects clear. They have a blurry distance vision, but can see nearby objects clearly.it is sometimes genetical, running from parents to their offspring. Myopia occurs when the cornea is more curved than usual or the eye becomes too large. It is an eye-focusing disorder which can be corrected with prescription lenses.
Symptoms of myopia
- Squinting of the eyes to see properly
- Headache
- Difficulty to read road signs
- Blurry distance vision
Myopia varies from person to person, and it is usually detected in children during school life when they strain their vision to see the white board or prefer to sit near to the television for a clearer view . Patients with myopia can be unaware of faraway objects, constantly rub the eyes for a clearer view, and tend to blink persistently.
Sometimes, myopia is a sign of blood sugar level variations, or an indication of cataracts.
Causes of myopia
There are at least three causes of myopia:
- Genetical
- Environmental
- A change in the shape of the lens or the cornea
Myopia can have a strong genetical inheritance. If a parent has myopia, children have 50% chance to be myopic, too. The environmental factor includes low light or insufficient light exposure, especially when reading.
Myopia occurs when the ray of light passes through the eyes, but does not focus on the retina. Instead, it focuses in front of the retina. That is why patients are able to see near objects. It is often caused by a change in the shape or length of the eye, but a change in the shape of the lens or the cornea may also cause myopia.
Treatment of myopia
There is no proper way to prevent myopia. However, there are some methods we can use to prevent its progression. The use of eyeglasses, contact lenses, corrective surgeries, laser procedures and alternative medicines can prevent its progression or correct the defect.
Glasses and contact lenses
Using glasses can correct the problem and prevent its progression. The use of glasses according to your eyesight is a primary need for myopia patients, but is not a permanent solution for the refractive problem.
Contact lenses are better than eye glasses as they provide a wider eyesight, but these need proper care because unproper handling and inappropriate use can be dangerous for the eyes..
Laser procedures
We have two main laser procedures. One of them is LASIK (Laser in-situ keratomileusis), and the other is PRK (Photorefractive keratectomy).
In LASIK, a beam of light is passed through the eyes, and a small amount of tissue is removed. The cornea can also be reshaped to improve the refraction problem.
In PRK, a beam ray reaches the corneal stroma and the laser ablates or removes residual layers that are affecting distance vision.
It’s the right time for clearer vision
Our knowledgeable staff is here to answer all your questions about which procedure is best for you, and ensure you have the most comfortable experience possible. Make an appointment today!
At Texas Eye and Cataract, we know how important it is to see life with clear vision. We understand that being your best means seeing your best.