Myopia, otherwise known as nearsightedness, is an eye-focusing disorder that makes it difficult for people to see far-away objects but has little difficulty with close-up things.
For example, someone with myopia might be able to read a book when sitting down easily but might struggle to read the whiteboard during a class.
Myopia is an issue that affects the shape of your eye, and it’s not something that can be reversed.
In children, myopia is progressive and there are technologies available that can slow it down. Children who use MiyoSmart lenses in their glasses progress 60% less compared to children who use regular glasses lenses. This is a great method of controlling myopia because it works well and it is non-invasive (no drops or contact lenses required!). Similar technology is also available in daily disposable soft contact lenses that are meant for children. We also fit these at our practice and can train children on how to use contact lenses. In adults, laser eye surgery can sometimes be an option.
If you’re experiencing blurry vision, discomfort or have other concerns about your eyes, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with our friendly staff and learn more about the different myopia treatment plans available.
Treatment Options for Myopia
Myopia is generally treated through laser eye surgery or glasses and contact lenses. There are many different options to choose from, and it is recommended to book an appointment with your optometrist to discuss which choice might be right for you.
Here are 3 types of laser eye surgeries commonly used to correct myopia:
Laser-assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)
LASIK surgery involves using an eye laser to change the shape of the cornea and correct the refractive error. Some of the common risks that are associated with LASIK are dry eye and halos/starbursts in vision.
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
Like LASIK, PRK uses an eye laser to change the shape of your cornea, but by removing the cornea’s outer layer. Some possible side effects of PRK include scratchy eyes, scarred cornea, or infection.
Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE)
SMILE aims to fix refractive errors by removing the corneal disc and using a laser to reshape the cornea. With this technique, the cornea is disturbed less, making dry eye a less common post-procedure symptom.
Non-surgical Management Options for Myopia
Only some people are eligible or willing to have laser eye surgery, and several non-surgical options may be beneficial for your eyes.
- Myopia Control Lenses (MiyoSmart)
Myopia Control Lenses are a special type of high tech glasses lens that slow the progression of myopia in children. Their design consists of many small segments that provide myopic defocus in the periphery, while maintaining clear central vision. These lenses slow the progression of myopia and result in lower prescriptions as kids get older. Similar technology also exists for daily disposable soft contact lenses.
- Orthokeratology
In some cases, your eye doctor may recommend orthokeratology to correct myopia. It involves using rigid contact lenses that will slowly change the shape of your cornea to reflect light properly and resolve the refractive issue.
- Atropine Drops
There is growing evidence that low dose atropine drops can effectively slow myopia progression in children. Speak to your optometrist about whether your child is a candidate for atropine therapy.
What is Myopia?
Myopia or nearsightedness is a vision condition that typically happens when someone has an irregularly shaped eye causing light to refract inaccurately. Myopia is commonly identified during childhood or adolescence and can be treated through eyeglasses, contact lenses, or laser eye surgery.
How is Myopia Identified?
Booking an eye examination with your optometrist is the easiest way to identify if you have myopia or another visual condition. During the examination, your eye care provider will likely ask to test your eye movement, response to light, and eye pressure, along with a thorough evaluation of your eyes.
Symptoms of Myopia
People with myopia may experience various symptoms based on the intensity of the condition. Here are a few of the common symptoms seen in people with myopia:
- Headaches and sore eyes
- Persistent blinking or squinting
- Difficulty seeing objects in the distance
- Constantly rubbing your eyes
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or think you might have myopia, please make sure to schedule an eye examination and have them evaluated by a professional.
What Causes Myopia?
Generally, myopia results from an irregular shape of the eye that affects how the light passes into the eye. However, some factors may increase your chances of developing or having the condition.
- Technology & Screen Time: Too much time spent looking at a monitor or a phone can negatively impact your eyes and increase your chances of developing nearsightedness.
- Genetics: If your parents have myopia, you will likely develop the condition yourself.
- Outdoor Exposure: Spending more time outside can benefit your eyes, whereas too much time indoors could increase the likelihood of vision conditions like myopia.
- Close-up activities: Prolonged activities that require close-up focus have been associated with nearsightedness, and it is important to give your eyes breaks in between.
Spending more time outdoors and less time looking at a screen may significantly impact your eye health and is worth keeping in mind!
Book a Consultation
An important step to taking care of your eye health is regularly having your eyes examined by a trained professional. At River City Eye Care, our team of friendly staff will be happy to assist you in booking a routine checkup to evaluate and discuss your eye health.