What is Myopia?
Myopia, commonly known as near-sightedness, is a refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly. This occurs when light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it, often resulting in narrowing the eyes or 'squinting' when looking far. The term "myopia" is derived from the Greek word "muopia," meaning "to close the eyes."
Signs and Symptoms
Blurred Distance Vision
Myopia typically causes distant objects to appear blurry while close objects remain clear. This blurred distance vision is a common symptom that indicates a refractive error in the eyes.
Difficulty Driving at Night
People with myopia often experience increased difficulty seeing clearly while driving at night. The glare from headlights and streetlights can exacerbate the problem, making nighttime driving challenging.
Eye Strain
Eye strain is a common symptom of myopia, especially after prolonged periods of reading, using digital devices, or performing other close-up tasks. This strain can lead to discomfort and fatigue in the eyes.
Headaches from Squinting
Frequent squinting to see distant objects more clearly can cause headaches. This is a common symptom of myopia, as the eyes strain to compensate for the blurry vision.
Detection and Prevention
Myopia is typically detected through comprehensive eye examinations, which may include visual acuity tests, retinoscopy, and autorefraction. While there is no universally accepted method to prevent myopia, some clinicians suggest that managing near-point visual stress—such as taking regular breaks during close work—may help.
Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors has also been associated with a reduced risk of developing myopia.
Did you know that spending 90 minutes outdoors daily can significantly reduce myopia risk in children?
Treatment Options
The most common treatments for myopia include prescription glasses and contact lenses that correct the refractive error, allowing for clear distance vision. Refractive surgeries, such as LASIK, are also available for eligible candidates seeking alternate treatments. Additionally, orthokeratology (Ortho-K) involves wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, providing clear vision during the day without corrective lenses.
There are several options in the management and treatment of myopia, however, there is no cure to ensure the focus of the eye remains unchanged throughout one's lifetime.
Managing Myopia Progression
Recent advancements have introduced methods to slow myopia progression in children. Specialized spectacle lenses, such as MiYOSMART , utilize innovative technologies to not only correct vision but also manage myopia progression. These lenses are designed to provide clear vision while simultaneously addressing the factors that contribute to the worsening of myopia over time.