Brice Hwang is a Board-Certified Comprehensive Ophthalmologist, specializing in laser-assisted cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, and diabetic retinopathy management. In the following article, Brice Hwang MD unravels the intricacies of myopia, exploring its causes, effects, and effective strategies for management and prevention.
Myopia, more commonly called nearsightedness, is a common eye condition that affects more than 1.6 billion people around the globe.
In the United States alone, over 40 percent of the population has the condition. Myopia affects how an individual sees in distance – myopic individuals can clearly see objects near them but have trouble seeing objects that are farther away as they appear blurry.
Today, cases of myopia are rapidly increasing as children spend more time watching or playing on gadgets, computers, and television, which greatly contributes to developing nearsightedness.
Brice Hwang MD discusses more below, offering insights into preventive measures and potential treatment options.
Brice Hwang MD Explains Myopia Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Causes
Nearsightedness occurs when one’s cornea is steeply curved or if the eye is too long from front to back, which prevents light from bending properly. This causes light to be aimed in front of the retina instead of on it.
Brice Hwang MD explains that the retina uses light to form images that it sees and then sends them to the brain. When light cannot focus properly on the retina, it will create blurry images. The truth is that experts aren’t sure of the exact causes of myopia but have identified various factors that contribute to the development of the condition, including:
- Genetics: Over 150 genes associated to myopia have been identified. Anyone who carries these genes is more likely to be nearsighted. Also, a parent who has myopia is likely to pass the condition to their child. If both parents have it, the higher the risk for the children.
- Activities: Experts believe that individuals who don’t spend much time outdoors are more likely to develop nearsightedness. Constant exposure to screens and gadgets is also a big contributor.
- Health Issues: Health issues like eye cataracts and diabetes increase the likelihood of being nearsighted.
Symptoms
- Brice Hwang MD notes blurry vision or difficulty seeing far objects like a blackboard in a classroom, road signs, or a movie
- Squinting to see properly
- Headaches due to eyestrain
- Difficulty seeing while driving
Additionally, nearsightedness typically begins to develop between the ages of 6 and 14. Studies show that myopia affects about 30 percent of adolescents, 9 percent of school-aged kids, and 5 percent of preschoolers.
Brice Hwang MD reports that a child may have myopia if they:
- Squint Constantly
- Blink excessively
- Rub eyes frequently
- Watch close to the television or movie screen
Treatments
Brice Hwang MD says that treatment of nearsightedness has changed over the years, now emphasizing slowing down the progression. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition, so it’s best to consult with a trusted ophthalmologist to assess and provide the right treatment.
Common treatments for myopia include:
- Glasses
- Contact Lenses
- Orthokeratology (corneal refractive therapy)
- Refractive Surgery
Best Preventive Measures for Myopia
Spend Time Outdoors
Immersing yourself in natural light not only revitalizes your eyes but also reprograms their structure, enhancing focus on distant objects. Embrace daily outdoor activities to engage your eyes in exercises that involve focusing on faraway elements. Scientifically, exposure to natural light has been correlated with a diminished risk of myopia, especially among children.
Take Regular Screen Breaks
Brice Hwang MD reports that exposure to screens and gadgets should be minimized. If prolonged screen time cannot be avoided, such as using the computer for work, screen breaks are a must to avoid eye strain. One could follow the 20-20-20 rule – look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds, every 20 minutes.
Ensure Proper Distance and Good Lighting
Make sure to observe a proper distance of at least 18 inches when watching television or using screens. Also, make sure to use good lighting when reading or doing a task to get adequate but non-glaring light.
Get Regular Eye Check Ups
Myopic or not, it is ideal to have the eyes checked by an optometrist at least once a year. Optometrists can also monitor the progression of the condition for those who have myopia. If the doctor prescribes glasses or contact lenses, make sure to wear them at all times.
Eat Healthy
Brice Hwang MD says that a diet rich in nutritious foods also promotes eye health. This includes dark leafy greens, fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, lean meat and poultry, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Myopia is a common condition, but it can be prevented or slowed down by a few changes in lifestyle and habits.
Research
Stay tuned to ongoing research. There are active research occurring to identify new and novel ways to halt progression of myopia such as low dose of atropine.
