Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition in which close objects appear clearly, but far ones do not. It occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, a lens is too thick, or the cornea is too curved. As a result, instead of focusing images on the retina, the lens of the eye focuses the image in the front of the retina. If you have undiagnosed myopia, you may experience headaches and eye strain. Additionally, you may squint or feel fatigued when playing sports or driving. Common signs and symptoms of nearsightedness include headaches, eye strain, squinting, and difficulty seeing distant objects, such as highway signs.
In most cases, being nearsighted is a minor inconvenience posing little or no risk to the health of the eye. However, in other cases where someone has high myopia or degenerative myopia the health of the eye is at risk. In fact, with high myopia there is an increased risk of retinal detachment. Additionally, high myopia can also increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma. For this reason, getting an annual eye exam is important to your overall health.
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a refractive error, which means that the eye does not bend or refract light properly to a single focus to see images clearly.
TREATING MYPOIA
VISION CORRECTION
EYEGLASSES
CONTACT LENSES
Nearsightedness can be frustrating, especially since it can affect so many parts of everyday life. But, the good news is treatment is usually very simple. A prescription for contact lenses or eyeglasses (progressive lenses) will help change the way light enters your eyes, placing the focus point back onto your retinas. For anyone who is experiencing excessive blinking, squinting, eye rubbing, headaches, fatigue, or difficulty seeing objects while driving on a regular basis, booking an eye exam sooner than later is important.
The most appropriate vision correction for you depends on your eyes and your lifestyle. During your eye exam we will discuss your lifestyle to develop the most effective treatment for you. If you would like to speak to an eye care professional to learn more our comprehensive eye exams, or need help booking an appointment contact our office at (805) 522-7007.
Some of the signs and symptoms of myopia include eye strain, headaches, squinting to see properly and difficulty seeing objects far away, such as road signs.
Regardless of your age or physical health getting an annual eye exam is important.