What is nearsightedness? What is myopia?

At Innovative EyeCare, we are dedicated to implementing strategies to effectively slow down progression of nearsightedness in children.

The clinical term for nearsightedness is myopia. Myopia is a refractive error that affects the way light focuses on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye, converting light into neural signals for visual processing. In individuals with myopia, the eyeball is typically longer than normal or the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, is too curved. These structural variations cause light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, resulting in blurred distance vision.

People with nearsightedness often experience clear vision when looking at objects at near, such as reading a book or using a computer. This is why they are called nearsighted, because they have “near sight.” However, because of the shape of their eyeball, the ability to see distant objects, such as road signs or distant landmarks, is significantly compromised. This condition can vary in severity, ranging from mild nearsightedness to high myopia, where the degree of blurriness at a distance is more severe.

Myopia typically emerges during childhood or adolescence and may progress as the eyes continue to grow. It can be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, with prolonged near work, limited outdoor activities, and a family history of myopia being common contributing factors. The prevalence of myopia has been increasing globally, highlighting the need for early detection and management to minimize progression and potential long-term eye health risks associated with high myopia.

Nearsightedness can be easily diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination conducted by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The most common methods of correcting myopia include prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgeries.

Orthokeratology contact lenses provide a unique method for correction myopia, utilizing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses to be worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea, temporarily altering its curvature. This reshaping allows light to focus directly on the retina, providing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses, daytime contact lenses or refractive surgery.