What is Myopia? | Vooglam

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common eyesight issue. When the eye is relaxed with normal vision, parallel light focuses on the retina, creating a clear image. But in myopia, parallel light focuses in front of the retina and clear images can not be forming. In another case, light may also focus behind the retina, forming hyperopia. An eye exam can measure nearsightedness, often noted on prescription form as "-0.50 D" for 0.5 diopters of nearsightedness.

Mild, moderate myopia and high myopia

In mild or moderate myopia, blurred vision is the only symptom. You can see small objects clearly at close range with little adjustment. However, in high nearsightedness, working at very close distances requires intense focus. This can lead to eye strain and fatigue.

High myopia is typically seen as a severe form of nearsightedness. It's crucial to note that high myopia can lead to serious eye issues. Some studies show that high myopia can lead to serious complications. These complications are now a top cause of blindness in middle-aged and older adults. So, high myopia needs serious attention.

High myopia is defined as having more than 6 diopters of myopia. Most cases stabilize around age 20, but some may worsen even in adulthood, reaching over 30 diopters.

What causes myopia or nearsightedness?

Myopia results from both environmental and genetic factors. If one parent has high nearsightedness (over 6 diopters), their children are more likely to develop it. Environmental factors can also lead to visual fatigue, a major cause of myopia. For example, reading in a dark environment, long-term use of electronic devices

Visual fatigue leads to blurred vision and changes in the eye's structure. With rising nearsightedness levels, the eye axis can elongate irreversibly. Normally, myopia stabilizes after the eyeball matures (around age 18). However, many middle-aged people still see gradual increases due to excessive eye use.

Thus, age isn't the only factor in rising nearsightedness; overuse of the eyes plays a significant role. Poor habits can worsen myopia. Many patients change these habits after they get glasses. They start to pay more attention to their reading distance, time, and posture.

How to correct or improve myopia?

In daily life, especially for students or workers, our eyes often signal fatigue after long use. So, how can we protect our eyes or improve myopia? Common medical options include glasses, surgery, and medication:

Frame glasses are the top choice for improving nearsightedness. They are convenient, affordable, and safe. For teens or those needing short-term use, frame glasses are ideal. Myopia surgery can reduce or even cure myopia. It's suitable for those over 18 with a stable diopters of myopia.

Because individual needs vary, no single drug works best for everyone. Patients should select the right medication based on personal circumstances and doctor guidance.

Tips for daily eye protection

Myopia is a controllable condition and usually does not affect daily life. It is important to avoid excessive anxiety about myopia. Once you notice symptoms of nearsightedness, you should take the initiative to develop good eye habits to help prevent the condition from getting worse. If you need medical advice or diagnosis, please consult a professional in time.