What’s myopia?
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a visual acuity problem that interferes with your ability to see objects in the distance but doesn’t affect your ability to see things that are near to you.
Myopia ranges in severity. The degree of your condition determines how well you can focus on distant objects. For example, if you have mild myopia, you won’t be able to see objects several yards away clearly. However, if you have severe myopia, you’ll struggle to see things that are only a few inches away.
Myopia is often progressive throughout childhood and adolescence, leveling off as you reach adulthood. However, your prescription can continue to change throughout your life. Your risk of myopia is higher if your parents are also nearsighted.
What are the signs of myopia?
Myopia interferes with your distance vision. Early signs of nearsightedness include:
- Struggling to read road signs
- Headaches
- Eye strain
- Squinting
In children, undiagnosed myopia can lead to a decline in their academic performance and behavioral changes. They might also complain of headaches or of not being able to see what the teacher is doing at the front of the room.
How is myopia diagnosed?
The team at Benjamin Optical diagnoses myopia using a series of visual acuity and refraction tests. These tests allow your doctor to measure the clarity of your vision. They can also use slit lamp tests to examine the structures of your eyes to check for other conditions that could interfere with your vision.
How is myopia treated?
In most cases, the optometrists at Benjamin Optical prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct your myopia and enable you to see clearly.
Myopia develops when the lenses in your eye don’t focus light correctly on your retina. Abnormalities in your lenses focus the light in front of your retina instead of on its surface. Prescription lenses correct how light is focused as it enters your eye.
You can choose from a wide range of lens options, including high-index lenses and photochromic lenses. Benjamin Optical also offers a wide range of stylish frames to suit every taste and budget.
If you’re suffering from myopia, call Benjamin Optical or schedule an appointment online today.
