Vision is possible because the front of the eye bends (refracts) light and redirects it to the retina. Myopia, better known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error that occurs when light entering the eye is focused incorrectly. This happens because the physical length of the eye is greater than the optical length.
The result: distant objects appearing blurry.
Signs and Symptoms of Nearsightedness
Nearsightedness is a very common vision condition affecting nearly 30 percent of the U.S. population. It generally first develops in school-age children and progresses until about the age of 20. However, nearsightedness may also develop in adults due to visual stress or health conditions such as diabetes.
Signs and symptoms of nearsightedness include:
- Objects in the distance are blurred.
- A person with nearsightedness can easily read the Jaeger eye chart (the chart for near reading), but has trouble reading the Snellen eye chart (the chart for distance).
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
If you feel you may be experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor at your earliest convenience. Any change in your vision is a serious medical condition that requires prompt medical attention from your optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Treatment of Nearsightedness
There are two primary treatments for nearsightedness: eyeglasses/contact lenses or surgery.
- Eye Glasses or Contact Lenses: Both optical devices help shift the focus of the light image directly onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision.
- LASIK Surgery: An excimer laser is used to reshape (flatten) the cornea, shifting the focus.
To learn more about Nearsightedness (Myopia), please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrist Dr. Nathan Frank, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com today!
Located in Annapolis, Maryland, the Anne Arundel Eye Center offers comprehensive specialized ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care. Specializing in glaucoma and cataracts, Dr. Boles has helped restore and preserve thousands of patients’ vision.
Glaucoma and Cataracts may be a natural part of aging. Losing your vision doesn’t have to be.
For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.
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