How is Myopia Diagnosed and Treated?

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a common refractive error of the eye that causes distant objects to appear blurred while close-up objects remain clear. This occurs when the eyeball is slightly longer than normal, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it.
 

Myopia typically develops during childhood and often progresses through the teenage years. As the eye continues to grow, the degree of myopia may increase, making it more difficult to see distant objects clearly. This can impact a person's ability to perform everyday tasks, such as driving, playing sports, or reading the whiteboard in a classroom.
 

Recognizing the Symptoms of Myopia

The primary symptom of myopia is blurred distant vision. You may find yourself squinting or straining your eyes to see clearly at a distance. Other common symptoms of myopia include:
 

·        Headaches or eye strain after prolonged close-up work

·        Difficulty seeing clearly at night or in low-light conditions

·        Frequent rubbing of the eyes

·        Fatigue or discomfort during activities that require distant vision
 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an eye exam with an opometrist to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
 

Diagnosing Myopia

Myopia is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam. During the exam, the following tests may be conducted:
 

•        Visual acuity test: This test measures how well you can see at various distances using an eye chart.

•        Refraction assessment: Your optometrist will use a phoropter, a device with different lenses, to determine the precise refractive error of your eyes.

•        Slit-lamp examination: This allows the eye care provider to closely examine the front of your eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens, to check for any abnormalities.

•        Tonometry: This test measures the pressure inside your eye, which can help detect conditions like glaucoma.

•        Pupil dilation: Your doctor may use eye drops to dilate your pupils, allowing them to get a better view of the retina and check for any underlying conditions.
 

Based on the results of these tests, your doctor will diagnose the presence and degree of myopia, as well as determine the best course of treatment.
 

Treatment Options for Myopia

The primary treatment for myopia has traditionally been the use of corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses. These lenses work by bending the light entering the eye, allowing it to focus properly on the retina and providing clear distant vision. For individuals with severe or persistent myopia that cannot be adequately corrected with glasses or contact lenses, LASIK surgery may be an option.
 

In recent years, new myopia management techniques have been developed that aim to slow the progression of the condition and potentially reduce the need for stronger prescriptions over time and reducing the risk of eye conditions. These techniques include:
 

•        Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): A non-surgical treatment that uses specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea, reducing myopia and providing clear vision without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.

•        Atropine eye drops: Low-dose atropine eye drops have been shown to slow the progression of myopia in children, although the long-term effects and optimal dosage are still being studied.

•        Multifocal contact lenses: These specialized contact lenses have different focusing powers in different parts of the lens, which can help slow the progression of myopia in children.
 

Your optometrist can discuss these myopia management techniques with you and help determine the best approach based on your individual needs and the severity of your myopia.
 

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam with Larkin Eye Care Today

Myopia is a common refractive error that can significantly impact your daily life, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, it can be effectively managed. From traditional corrective lenses to innovative myopia management techniques, there are a variety of options available to help you achieve clear, comfortable vision.
 

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of myopia, contact Larkin Eye Care. We can provide a comprehensive evaluation, diagnose the underlying cause, and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique visual needs. Visit our office in Pembroke Pines, Florida, by calling (954) 392-4111 to book an appointment today.