Near-Sightedness (Myopia)
Introduction
Myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), and astigmatism
(distorted vision) are what as know as refractive errors.
For proper eyesight, the cornea (the clear window in front of the eye)
and the lens (behind the pupil) must properly focus or "refract" light
onto the retina (at the back of the eye). If the length or shape of the
eye is not ideal, the light may get focused too early or too late
leaving a blurred image on the retina.
Myopia, or near-sightedness, is the ability to clearly see objects up
close but not those at a distance.
Causes
It is an inherited condition usually detected in children between the
ages of eight and twelve. Few factors outside of heredity affect this
condition. Using dim light, reading too much or nutritional deficiencies
do not seem to impact it one way or the other.
Treatment
Myopia is best treated with eyeglasses and contact lenses which
compensate for the elongated shape of the eye allowing the light to
focus properly on the retina. As children (and their eyes) grow through
the teen years, the condition typically worsens and then levels off in
adulthood. During this growing period, new eyeglasses may be needed as
often as every six months to correct the problem.
There is no scientific evidence that contact lenses or eye exercises
stop the progression of myopia. Refractive surgery is available as a
treatment for myopia but most ophthalmologists--medically trained eye
doctors--feel that eyes with simple myopia would best be treated with
glasses or contact lenses.
© Copyright by the Canadian Ophthalmological Society