Understanding myopia (short-sightedness): symptoms, causes and treatments

What is myopia?

In myopia, light entering the eye is focused before it reaches the retina, causing distant objects to appear blurry. The condition can vary in severity, from mild to moderate, or severe (high myopia). Myopia typically develops in childhood or adolescence but can also begin in adulthood.

Symptoms of myopia

The symptoms of myopia often become noticeable during childhood or adolescence and may include:

• Blurred vision for distant objects
• Clear near vision
• Difficulty seeing clearly in low light conditions or at night
• Frequent squinting to try and see better
• Headaches due to eye strain

If left uncorrected, myopia can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life, especially tasks requiring clear distance vision, such as driving.

Causes of myopia

Several factors contribute to the development of myopia:

• Age: Myopia often worsens during puberty due to rapid eye growth.
• Close-up reading: Prolonged near work, such as reading or using computers, may increase the risk of developing myopia.
• Diabetes: This condition can contribute to changes in the eye's shape and focusing ability.
• Cataracts: Certain types of cataracts can influence myopia development.
• Familial factors: There is a genetic predisposition to myopia, meaning it can run in families.

Treatment options for myopia

Myopia can be managed through various non-surgical and surgical treatments. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as age, the severity of myopia, corneal thickness, and any existing ocular conditions.

Non-surgical treatment options

1. Glasses: Prescription glasses with negative lenses correct myopia by adjusting the light entering the eye to focus on the retina.
2. Contact lenses: Similar to glasses, contact lenses can correct myopia and are available in various types, including daily, bi-weekly, and monthly disposables.
3. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): This involves wearing rigid contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. The effect lasts for about 1 to 2 days, with longer-term effects requiring more frequent use. Ortho-K is generally suitable for mild to moderate myopia but its long-term effects are still being studied.

Surgical treatment options

1. Laser eye surgery:
• LASIK: Uses a laser to reshape the cornea, correcting how light focuses on the retina. This popular procedure typically offers permanent vision correction.
• LASEK: A variant of LASIK that is suitable for individuals with thinner corneas. It also reshapes the cornea to correct vision.
• Blended vision: A laser technique that aims to provide good vision at both near and distance.
  
  
2. Lens implant surgery (Implantable Contact Lenses):
• Involves inserting a lens behind the cornea to correct vision. Ideal for individuals who are not suitable candidates for laser eye surgery or those with very high levels of myopia.
  
  
3. Lens replacement surgery:
• Similar to cataract surgery, this involves removing the natural crystalline lens and replacing it with a multifocal lens. This option may be more appropriate for individuals over the age of 45.

Find out more about vision correction procedures here.

Conclusion

Myopia is a manageable condition with several effective treatment options available. Whether you opt for glasses, contact lenses, or surgical interventions, addressing myopia can greatly enhance your quality of life and visual comfort.

If you would like to discuss potential myopia treatment options, please book your free initial consultation.