Myopia is a widespread visual disorder that affects the ability to see distant objects clearly. It affects millions of people worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise due to changing modern habits, such as excessive screen use.
What is myopia?
Myopia is a refractive error in which the eye cannot correctly focus on the retina, causing light to focus in front of the retina. As a result, near objects appear bright, while far objects become blurred. This condition can vary in intensity, from mild discomfort to severely impaired vision.
Causes of myopia
The exact causes of myopia are not entirely known, but several factors can contribute to its development:
- Hereditary factors: Genetics play a key role. If one or both parents are myopic, there's a good chance that the child will also develop the condition.
- Environmental factors: Myopia can also be linked to environmental factors, including prolonged use of screens (computers, smartphones), short-distance reading, or activities requiring prolonged focus in close proximity.
- Abnormal eye growth: In some people, the eye continues to grow beyond average size during childhood, lengthening the visual axis and causing light to focus incorrectly.
Symptoms of myopia
People with myopia may notice the following symptoms:
- Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, such as road signs or blackboards in class.
- Eye fatigue and headaches, especially after prolonged visual exertion.
- Squinting to improve the sharpness of vision.
- Excessive blinking or rubbing of the eyes, especially in children.
Diagnosis of myopia
Myopia is diagnosed during a routine eye examination. An Optometrist will perform several tests to assess the refraction of light in the eye and determine the quality of your vision.
Tests include:
- Visual acuity test: You'll be asked to read letters or symbols on a chart at different distances.
- Refraction: This test involves using a series of lenses to determine the required correction type.
- Corneal topography: In some cases, a more detailed analysis of the corneal curvature may be carried out to assess any abnormalities.
Treatment of myopia
The good news is that there are several options for correcting myopia and improving vision.
- Glasses or contact lenses: The most common solutions for correcting myopia are glasses or contact lenses. These compensate for the excessive curvature of the eye and allow light to focus more effectively on the retina.
- Refractive surgery: Surgical options such as laser surgery (LASIK, PRK) are available for those wishing to dispense with glasses or contacts. These techniques aim to reshape the cornea to correct myopia permanently.
- Orthokeratology: This method involves wearing special lenses at night to temporarily reshape the cornea and improve vision during the day without glasses or lenses.
Prevention and advice
Although it's challenging to prevent myopia altogether, especially in the presence of genetic factors, certain habits can help reduce its impact or slow its progression:
- Limit screen time: Reducing prolonged exposure to digital devices can reduce eye fatigue.
- Take frequent breaks: Adopt the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away (about 6 meters) for at least 20 seconds.
- Spend time outdoors: Studies show that exposure to natural light can slow myopia progression in children.
Myopia is a common but easily treatable visual disorder. If you or your loved ones are showing symptoms of myopia, we recommend you consult an eye care professional for a complete examination. With the proper corrections and practices, it is entirely possible to maintain a clear, comfortable vision.
