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Signs and Symptoms of Nearsightedness

May 18, 2021

Nearsightedness or myopia is the most common cause of vision impairment among individuals under 40 years. Myopia prevalence has been growing at an alarming rate in the last couple of years. The cases have continued to rise, especially among young children. It is expected that in the next 30 years, half the world’s population will be myopic. It is vital to understand the signs and symptoms of this condition.

 

What Causes Nearsightedness

 

An individual suffers from myopia or nearsightedness when the length of his eyeball is in excess compared to how powerful the lens is. It affects the cornea’s ability to focus. The condition results in light rays focusing before reaching the retina as opposed to directly on it. Nearsightedness can also result from the cornea or lens curving too. A combination of the two factors may be responsible for the condition. 

 

Symptoms of Nearsightedness

 

Nearsighted people find it difficult to see distant objects. They have difficulty reading road signs, but they can see things that are up close. This means that they can often read or use the computer quite easily. There are other symptoms of nearsightedness, and they include eye strain, squinting, and headaches. Some people also experience fatigue when driving or playing sports. This is usually due to the straining of the eyes to see clearly. If you experience symptoms while wearing glasses or contacts, you may need a stronger prescription.

 

Treating Nearsightedness

 

Cases of progressive nearsightedness are treatable using several myopia control methods. Some of the treatments available include myopia control glasses, atropine eye drops, myopia control lenses, and ortho-K contact lenses. In some cases, using standard prescription contacts, eyeglasses, or refractive surgery can correct myopia. Depending on the severity of the nearsightedness, you may need to wear glasses or contacts at all times. Refractive surgery can eliminate or reduce the need to wear glasses or contacts.

 

Signs of Degenerative Myopia

 

In many cases, nearsightedness is a minor inconvenience that usually poses minimal risk to eye health. However, in some cases, myopia can be severe and progressive. When this occurs, it is described as degenerative myopia. Also called pathological or malignant myopia, the degenerative condition is rare and possibly hereditary. It usually begins in childhood, and it is one of the leading causes of legal blindness. Degenerative myopia may increase the chances of cataracts developing.

 

Visiting an Eye Doctor

 

If your child is experiencing difficulty seeing objects or making out words on a blackboard, it is essential to see a doctor. Nearsightedness can be treated or slowed down in children. Poor vision can affect the child’s quality of life, and different treatment methods have been used to manage the condition. Progressive lenses and permeable contacts have been tried with mixed results. It is vital to know that some kids do not respond well to atropine drops.

 

Nearsightedness usually begins in childhood. Children have a high risk of developing myopia if one or both parents have it. In most cases, myopia stabilizes during early adulthood. However, in some cases, it may continue to progress as the individual ages. 

 

To learn more about nearsightedness, contact Vision Center South in Brewton, Enterprise, or Dothan, Alabama, or Marianna, Florida. You can also call (888) 660-2738 to book an appointment today. 

Roya1234 none 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm Closed Closed optometrist # # # # https://meetmarlo.com/shop/00u4bju7jaRbsJ0X6297 https://denney.myclstore.com/ https://denney.myclstore.com/ https://denney.myclstore.com/ 121 St. Joseph Ave. Brewton, AL 36426 2518673635 607 Boll Weevil Cir #C Enterprise, AL 36330 3343476599 4340 Lafayette Street Marianna, FL 32446 8504822336 2826 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 102 Dothan, AL 36301 3347932633