Glasses? Check. Contact lenses? Check. Squinting at your phone screen like it’s a puzzle? Double check. If any of these sound familiar, you might be one of the many people dealing with myopia, also known as nearsightedness. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! In this article, we’ll take a closer look at myopia and give you the lowdown on what you need to know.
What is myopia?
Myopia is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry, while nearby objects remain clear. This happens when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it.
How common is myopia?
Myopia is becoming increasingly common, especially in younger generations. In fact, a recent study found that nearly 40% of Americans are nearsighted!
What are the symptoms of myopia?
The most obvious symptom of myopia is blurry distance vision, but other symptoms can include eyestrain, headaches, and difficulty seeing at night.
Can myopia be prevented?
While there is no surefire way to prevent myopia, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk. Spending more time outdoors, taking breaks from screen time, and maintaining good eye hygiene are all important steps.
How is myopia treated?
Fortunately, there are several treatment options for myopia. Glasses and contact lenses are the most common options, but some people may be candidates for refractive surgery or orthokeratology, a process that uses special contact lenses to reshape the cornea.
While myopia can be a frustrating condition to deal with, there are plenty of options for managing and treating it. By understanding the basics of myopia and taking steps to protect your eyes, you can keep your vision sharp and clear. So don’t let blurry vision get you down – go out there and see the world! (Just maybe wear your glasses or contacts while doing so.)