Do you think you have nearsighted vision? This common eye condition, also known as myopia, affects a large portion of the population including children. But what causes it and most importantly, can it be fixed? Read on to learn what is myopia and how it can be corrected.

What is Myopia?

Myopia describes someone who is near or short sighted which means their eyes can focus clearly on objects close to their face, but will have difficulty focusing on objects located at a distance. 

What Causes Myopia?

As the eye develops, the surface of the eyeball can grow in a curved or elongated way. When this happens, it causes a refractive error due to the unnatural shape of the eye. So as light rays enter, they won’t directly contact the retina at the back of the eye, but rather stop in front of it. This is what makes objects at a distance appear blurry. This eye condition usually peaks around adulthood and won’t typically progress after. However, in some cases, after a traumatic brain injury, or over-exerting the eyes by focusing on items close up, it can worsen.

How Can It Be Corrected?

There is no cure as of yet for myopia. However, there are a few treatment options available that can help control this condition. Your treatment will depend on factors like your age and the condition of your myopia. But here are a few of the common treatment options that are available:

Laser Eye Surgery

One of the most common treatments used for adult myopia is laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery. During surgery, the laser is used to correct and reshape the refractive error so that objects can clearly be viewed at a distance. Laser eye surgery is not suitable for children with myopia.

Prescription Glasses or Contact Lenses

Prescription lenses are one of the easiest solutions for managing nearsightedness or myopia. Since the lens is designed to bend light, it compensates for the refractive error and allows your eyes to focus on objects that would otherwise appear blurry.

Atropine Eye Drops

Atropine eye drops are used to slow the progression of myopia in children. However, prescription lenses are usually still necessary.
If you suspect that you or your child might be nearsighted, or if you’re like to learn more about what is myopia and how it can be corrected, book an appointment at Laurier Optical for comprehensive eye exam in Orleans or any of our locations around Ottawa.

Article has been reviewed by an Optometrist.