Nearsightedness (Myopia): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
At Monterey County Eye Associates, we always strive to help patients improve their vision and have healthy eyes that last for years. This means offering high-quality contact lenses to improve vision clarity as well as advising patients with regard to advanced laser eye care procedures.
One of the most common vision problems that we treat at our practice is nearsightedness. We'd like to take a moment right now to go over some of the basics of nearsightedness and how it can be properly treated.
About Nearsightedness (Myopia)
Nearsightedness refers to a condition in which it is easy to see objects that are up close but objects that are at a distance appear distorted or blurry. For example, the text while reading a book may be clear, whereas it may be very difficult to read a street sign a block away.
Nearsightedness can progress rapidly, and it can become progressively worse with age.
Causes of Nearsightedness (Myopia)
Nearsightedness is caused by light improperly focused as it passes through the eye en route to the retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for interpreting light into images. When a person is nearsighted, the light is focused on a point in front of the retina rather than on the retina.
Issues with the curvature of the cornea (the clear, frontal part of the surface of the eye) and/or the shape of the lens of the eye can contribute to nearsightedness occurring.
Signs and Symptoms of Nearsightedness (Myopia)
The most obvious sign of nearsightedness is greater clarity of nearby objects and text. Patients may notice this become more and more pronounced as they age. Eyestrain and eye fatigue may also be a sign of nearsightedness.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Nearsightedness (Myopia)
When it comes to non-surgical treatments for nearsightedness, the old standbys are generally ideal. This means prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses. Different kinds of considerations are made when prescribing corrective lenses, and we will be more than happy to address any concerns that you may have regarding prescription lenses during the consultation process.
Surgical Treatments for Nearsightedness (Myopia)
Advances in laser technology have resulted in exceptionally effective and safe laser eye surgeries for treating nearsightedness and other vision problems. The most well-known and popular of these surgeries is LASIK. This laser vision correction surgery involves the careful reshaping of the cornea in order to improve the passage and focus of light through the eyes.
Though effective, not all people are ideal candidates for LASIK. Alternative laser eye surgery procedures suck as PRK and LASEK may be considered instead. These alternative surgeries are similar to LASIK in that they involve corneal reshaping to improve the passage of light through the eyes.
Which treatment option would be best for me?
No two patients are alike, which is why it's important for us to perform a comprehensive eye exam during the consultation process. We will also go over medical history and other concerns as we determine the ideal treatment option for you.
As you learn about your ideal treatment options, feel free to ask questions and voice concerns. We will be more than happy to answer any of your questions to ensure that you can make a confident choice when it comes to your eye healthy and vision correction options.
Schedule a Consultation at Our Eye Care Centers
For more information about treating nearsightedness and addressing other eye care matters, be sure to contact our vision correction and eye care experts today. The team at Monterey County Eye Associates looks forward to your visit and helping you achieve exceptional vision and healthy eyes.