Myopia
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Your Screens May Be Affecting Your Sight
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is the most common eye disorder in the world, with 40% of Americans having some degree of myopia. At Alice Family Eye Center in Alice, TX, we treat many eye conditions, including myopia.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia causes objects far away to be blurry, while items close up can be seen clearly. This is why it’s often called nearsightedness.
Myopia can be caused by the eye growing too long. It can also occur if the lens or cornea of the eye isn’t shaped correctly. When light enters the eye, these issues prevent it from being refracted properly, which affects your distance vision.
Myopia Symptoms
Myopia typically begins in childhood and can get progressively worse over time. Most patients find that myopia stops progressing in their 20s, allowing their prescription to stabilize.
The most noticeable symptom of myopia is difficulty seeing objects far away. You may also find that you need to squint to see items in the distance. Myopia can also cause headaches and eye strain.
Of course, myopia is usually diagnosed in childhood. Children aren’t always aware that there’s a problem with their vision. This is why it’s essential that children get regular eye exams.
You can also look for symptoms of myopia in children. They may often squint, blink frequently, and rub their eyes. They may also seem to be unaware of objects in the distance. They may sit very close to a television and have difficulty at school because they can’t see the board.
How Is Myopia Diagnosed?
Myopia can be diagnosed with a standard eye exam. If you are concerned your child has myopia, it’s best to visit a pediatric eye doctor. They have the experience and tools necessary to check your child’s vision.
Children who recognize their ABCs can use a regular eye chart to test their vision. Younger children are given tests with pictures, rather than letters.
Myopia Treatment
Another reason to visit a pediatric eye doctor is that they are experienced in fitting glasses for children.
Children with myopia will typically need to wear glasses to correct their vision. This usually allows them to have 20/20 vision when wearing their glasses. Older children and adults can also use contacts for myopia control. There are many varieties of contacts today. Some are removed daily, while others can be worn for longer periods.
Another option for myopia control is atropine eye drops. These drops can help slow the progression of myopia in childhood.
Myopia Control at Alice Family Eye Center
If you or your child has myopia in Alice, TX, contact Alice Family Eye Center at 361-668-3937. Our optometrist offers pediatric eye care, and treatment for eye disorders, including myopia, for the entire family.