What is myopia? > Myopia definition

Myopia definition - also known as nearsightedness or shortsightedness, is a common type of refractive error where close objects appear clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. Myopia develops in eyes that focus images in front of the retina instead of on the retina, which results in blurred vision. This occurs when the eyeball becomes too long and prevents incoming light from focusing directly on the retina. It may also be caused by an abnormal shape of the cornea or lens.

Most myopia is caused by a natural change in the shape of the eyeball that makes the eyeball oval (egg-shaped) rather than round. Less often, myopia may be caused by a change in the cornea or the eye lens.These problems cause light rays entering the human eye to focus in front of the retina. Normally, light focuses directly on the retina.

Who is at risk for myopia?

Myopia can affect both children and adults. The condition affects about 25 percent of population. Myopia is often diagnosed in children between 8 and 12 years of age and may worsen during the teen years. Little change may occur between ages 20 to 40, but sometimes myopia may worsen with age. People whose parents are nearsighted may be more likely to get the condition.

How is myopia diagnosed?

An eye care professional can diagnose myopia and other refractive errors during a comprehensive dilated eye examination. People with this condition often visit their eye care professional with complaints of visual discomfort or blurred vision.

What are serious complication associated with myopia?

The retina can be very thin in people with who are significantly nearsighted. Sometimes the retina can tear or detach. Symptoms of tear or detachment include: sudden flashes of light, floaters or a dark curtain of shadow across part of your eye. This is a medical emergency and you must go to the emergency room or ophthalmologist immediately.

The quality of your life depends on many things. The ability to see clearly can be the difference between success and failure in school or at work. It can be the difference between being independent and having to rely on others for basic needs. Not all vision problems can be cured or corrected. Luckily, myopia can be fixed. Take good care of your eyes by having regular vision exams, protecting your eyes from sunlight and hazards, and wearing your eyeglasses.