All You Need to Know About Myopia

All You Need to Know About Myopia
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Are you struggling to perceive distant objects while seeing the closer ones? You are most probably suffering from myopia.

Here’s all the essential information you need to know about myopia;

Causes of Myopia

The exact causes of myopia are still not established. Researchers have come up with possible factors that might lead to the objects being blurry when far and clear when nearer. One of the most commonly fronted reasons is the structure of the eye. A highly curved cornea or longer eyeball leads to less entering the cornea. The less light on the cornea leads to reduce focus, which causes blurry vision over long distances. 

Researchers have also concluded that genetic composition is a risk factor in myopia. They have discovered over 150 myopia-prone genes. Although one must contain several strains of the different genes to suffer from myopia. These genes can also be transmitted through generations. A child whose both have myopia are higher risks of contracting the condition. 

Apart from the genetically caused, more extended focus of the eyes like when reading a book or tablet, are also likely to cause myopia.

Symptoms of Myopia

Some of the most common myopia symptoms include;

  • Straining to look at distant objects while everything is clear when looking at closer objects.
  • Continuously squinting, to the extent of partially closing eyelids when observing far away objects.
  • Frequent squinting leads to headaches.
  • Poor vision when driving at night. This is also referred to as night myopia.

The best time to note myopia is during childhood. Observe some of the kid’s behavior with watching and blinking to notice if they have myopia. Some of the most common characteristics in children who have myopia include excessive blinking and frequently rubbing the eyes. The other signs include persistent squinting and the need to sit in front of the classroom because they struggle to read classroom whiteboards. Generally, the kid would seem not to notice distance objects and mostly sit closer to the television screen.

In most cases, the condition stabilizes by the time one reaches age 20. There are also cases when it persists.

Treatment Options

The first course of action to take immediately you notice myopia in your child is to seek medical attention. The doctor would suggest the most appropriate clinical myopia management options to stabilize the condition. The doctor continually monitors the child as they grow to establish improvements. The child needs screening at six months and three years of age. Afterward, they are tested every two years. 

For adults, if you believe you are at high risk of contracting the condition, you should start regular screening by age 40. Suffering from diseases like diabetes also increases your chances of contracting myopia. When established that you have myopia, a doctor will, in most cases, advise on contact lenses or eyeglasses. In extreme conditions, the doctor can opt for surgical procedures to correct the eyesight.

Bottom Line

While myopia is not a high health risk condition, it limits your abilities for regular activities like driving and operating machinery. Earlier screening helps you start clinical myopia management earlier enough, which increases your chances of better vision. 


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Anna is an avid blogger with an educational background in medicine and mental health. She is a generalist with many other interests including nutrition, women's health, astronomy and photography. In her free time from work and writing, Anna enjoys nature walks, reading, and listening to jazz and classical music.

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