Myopia is one of the most common vision problems. Nearly 14 million kids throughout the U.S. are nearsighted. It typically develops early in life and can worsen and progress over time. Fortunately, optometrists can offer practical options to help slow its progression, avoiding future adverse impacts on eye health.

What is Myopia?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a vision condition that affects millions of people. People with this condition cannot see objects clearly in the distance. However, things up close appear clear. That is because myopia results from the elongation of the eyeball, causing light to focus incorrectly on the retina.

What Causes Nearsightedness?

Several factors can contribute to nearsightedness, including environmental factors, genetics, and lifestyle habits. For example, those who spend lots of time reading, working on the computer, or engaging in other close work may be more at risk for developing myopia. 

Also, young kids and teenagers are more likely to develop nearsightedness than adults. The same applies to people with a family history of myopia.

Myopia Management

Left untreated, this refractive error can become more severe over time. That can lead to several vision-related issues. These include the following:
 

• Difficulty seeing distant objects

• Eyestrain

• A higher risk of developing severe eye conditions such as glaucoma or retinal detachment

• The need to partially close the eyelids or squint to see clearly

• Headaches

Fortunately, you can take steps to slow the progression of myopia and maintain good vision. Some of the things you can do to slow its progression include the following:

Visit Your Eye Doctor
 

First, it is essential to visit an eye doctor regularly for vision checkups and to receive a prescription for corrective lenses if necessary. These can help correct the refractive error in your eyes, improving your vision.

Spend More Time Outdoors

Take regular breaks from your computer, books, or other up-close work and spend time outdoors. Studies show that spending time in natural light and looking at distant objects can help slow myopia progression.

Use Good Lighting

Always ensure proper lighting when reading or doing other close work. That will help prevent or reduce eyestrain and prevent the worsening of myopia.

Control Treatments
 

Consider myopia control treatments such as prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses to help reduce the progression of myopia. Atropine eye drops can also slow the eyeball's elongation, slowing the progression of nearsightedness.

It would help to discuss these treatments' potential benefits and risks with your eye doctor. Other steps you can take to maintain good vision and eye health include the following:
 

• Wear sunglasses or a hat outdoors to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays

• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E which are essential for eye health

• Quit smoking

• Stay hydrated to prevent eye dryness, and keep your eyes healthy

By following these tips, you can help slow myopia's progression and maintain good eyesight. Studies suggest that early detection and treatment of myopia are crucial to preventing further vision loss and protecting your ocular health.

For more on myopia, visit Ives Family Eye Care at our Miami, Florida office. Call (305) 651-8832 to schedule an appointment today.