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Ms. Kezia Rose Joy ( BSc Optometry , SRM Institute Chennai) 

What is Myopia

Myopia is a type of refractive error in which parallel rays of light coming from infinity are found in front of the retina with accomodation in the rest.

 How common is Myopia

Today one in four parents has a child with some degree of nearsightedness. Some eye experts believe that if your child spends an extraordinary amount of time engaged in “near” activities, such as reading or using smartphones and computers, it may raise the risk of developing myopia.

 Can myopia lead to blindness?

myopia is a minor nuisance that can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses or surgery.

But in rare cases, like degenerative myopia develops that can be very serious and is a leading cause of legal blindness.

 What causes myopia?

1. Myopia is caused by both environmental and genetic risk factors.

2. Prolonged near work.

  What are the symptoms of myopia?

If you are nearsighted, we may notice:

1.Faraway objects look blurred or fuzzy.

2.Close items appear clear.

3.Headaches.

4.Eye strain.

5.Squinting.

6.Tiredness when driving, playing sports or looking more than a few feet away.

7. Bring objects close to the face.

 How is myopia diagnosed ?

General preliminary eye examination or standard eye examination can diagnose myopia.

  Myopia is usually diagnosed in childhood but can develop in adults as a result of visual stress or diabetes.

 Adults:

First visual acuity is checked by asking to read letters on chart.

Then, Retinoscope to measure how light is reflected by your retina, finally measures the amount of your refractive error by placing a series of lenses in front of your eyes.

Children:

Pediatrician will check your child’s eyes at each well child visit.

A first eye exam should be before age 1.

  How can you prevent myopia from getting worse?

Though there’s no cure for myopia, there are everyday steps you can take that can support your overall eye health.

 1.Limit time on digital devices.

2.Take screen breaks to stretch your eye muscles.

3.Don’t read or work in dim light.

4.Encourage going outdoors.

5.Wear sunglasses outside.

6.Wear protective eye gear for sports/hobbies.

Stop smoking.

7.Schedule regular eye exams.

8.Ask your doctor about atropine eye drops to slow progression.

9.Ask your doctor about dual focus contact lenses to slow progression in kids.

Shri Joy VV ( CEO, Grace Optical Wholesale distributors)

Dr. Sanoop Kumar Sherin Sabu (M.D., Gen Medicine Resident)

Dr. Irene Rose Joy ( Resident Ophthalmologist Acchutha Eye Care)