The inability to see far objects, commonly known as myopia, is a common vision condition. It affects millions of people worldwide.
As the number of cases continues to rise, it’s essential to understand this eye condition better.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into 10 frequently asked questions about myopia.
We will provide in-depth answers backed by facts to arm you with the right information about this eye defect.
1. What is Myopia, and How Does It Develop?
Myopia is also known as near-sightedness or short-sightedness. It is a refractive error that occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. When this happens, you can not see far-away objects. This is because distant objects appear out of focus.
Although this is not an eye disease, severe myopia can lead to the detachment of the retina and vision loss.
2. At What Age Does Myopia Typically Start?
Myopia often starts during childhood, with onset typically occurring between 6 and 14 years of age. Although children are more likely to develop myopia, it can develop at any age.
Most myopia develops during the school years and stabilizes in the teenage years. This is one of the questions about myopia often asked by young people battling with the eye defect.
“Nonetheless, several individuals will show myopic changes after entering college”, a study finds.
The same study indicated that this may manifest as an increase in myopia in a previously myopic subject – adult myopia.
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3. Can Myopia Progress Over Time?
Yes, myopia can progress, especially during periods of rapid growth, such as adolescence. High myopia, where the degree of nearsightedness is significant, poses a higher risk of eye-related complications.
4. How Do I Diagnose Myopia?
An eye care professional diagnoses myopia through a comprehensive eye exam, which includes visual acuity tests and refraction assessments to determine the degree of nearsightedness.
5. Are There Risk Factors for Myopia?
Yes, there are. Factors like genetics play a significant role in myopia, but environmental factors also contribute.
These factors are lack of outdoor time, prolonged near work, and a family history of myopia increases the risk.
Near work is any activity that requires focusing on objects within arm’s reach from the eyes: 16-20 in./40-50 cm or closer.
6. Can Myopia Be Prevented?
Of course. Even though genetic factors are beyond our control, lifestyle changes can help. Try and spend more time outdoors, take breaks from near work, and follow the 20-20-20 rule (looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes).
These measures can help prevent short-sightedness. Outside factors may contribute to accelerating myopia.
7. What Are the Consequences of High Myopia?
High myopia is associated with an increased risk of eye conditions like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.
According to the Beaver Dam Eye Study and the Blue Mountains Eye Study, there is an association between myopia and nuclear cataract.
The Blue Mountains Eye Study also found that moderate and high myopia, especially with onset before age 20, is associated with posterior subcapsular cataract formation.
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8. How Can I Correct Myopia?
Eyeglasses and contact lenses are common methods for correcting myopia. A specific example of the contact lens that can enable one correct myopia is concave lens. The purpose of the concave lens is to alter the way light enters the eye.
Refractive surgery, such as laser eye surgery, is another option for some people.
9. Is There a Cure for Myopia?
Currently, there is no cure for myopia. However, ongoing research into myopia control strategies aims to slow its progression, particularly in children.
10. Can Myopia Impact Academic Performance?
Yes. Uncorrected myopia can affect academic performance.
If you are a student, you may struggle to see the board or read materials.
That is why timely correction and regular eye check-ups are essential for academic success.
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Conclusion
By addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope you have learned a lot about myopia. Go ahead and take proactive steps to manage the defect while protecting your eye health.
Also, make informed decisions about corrective measures. Regular eye check-ups and a balanced approach to lifestyle will contribute to maintaining optimal vision throughout your life.
