Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, occurs when the eyeball is longer than normal or when the cornea is steeper than average. Nearsightedness causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on its surface. Someone with nearsightedness may squint noticeably when trying to view objects in the distance. Your optometrist at Invision Optical can diagnose you with Myopia based on your eye exam. However, there are many ways that you can prevent Myopia, and in this blog by Invision Optical, we will be going over a few of them. Myopia Control and prevention is achievable! Read on for more information.
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What can cause Myopia?
Historically, there has been a long history of an association of the increase in nearsightedness in people who are actively involved in doing more near work. Even as far back as the 1800s, scientists showed a relationship that people that had higher education or worked in an occupation that included a lot of near work, were much more nearsighted than those that did not have higher education or worked outside.
Most of us are exposed to an inordinate amount of near stimuli with smartphones, tablets, computers and a host of other digital devices. The jury is still out on whether this is really something we as a society need to be concerned about or not.
How can Myopia be prevented?
Scientists and doctors promote the idea that if the progression of myopia can be cut to approximately 50 percent, the incidence of serious complications can be cut by a significant amount. Some ways Myopia can be prevented include:
Visual Correction
Many parents are concerned that if a doctor prescribes glasses to be worn most of the time, their child will become dependent on them or that the glasses themselves will cause more nearsightedness to occur. Some parents may feel that it is best to not correct the condition at all. However, research shows that not correcting a child’s nearsightedness could actually cause the nearsightedness to worsen. An eye exam and prescription glasses can help with vision correction.
Outdoor Activities
Important studies have shown that time spent outdoors can delay the onset or even reduce the progression of nearsightedness. More research needs to be performed but the amount of time spent outside appears to at least be an important risk factor. Most doctors recommend that children spend at least 120 minutes outdoors every day.
Low Dose Atropine
Some studies show as high as 90 percent reduction in progression. Atropine is given in eye drop form daily, usually at bedtime. The exact mechanism is not known. Studies have shown low dose atropine to be safe. However, some practitioners are cautious, as high dose atropine can cause some undesirable side effects. Your optometrist can talk to you about this method, and prescribe the proper dosage.
Your optometrist at Invision Optical can talk to you about Myopia, and how to prevent it. Routine eye exams are a great way to ensure your vision health and diagnose any issues early. Click here to find our contact information, schedule an eye exam, or to speak with a representative.
