What Is Myopia?
Myopia is a vision problem that is very common. Yet, a certain number of myths surround this vision defect that affects adults, as well as children. Do you truly know what myopia is, what are its symptoms and how to correct it? Take the Michel Pop quiz at the end of the article, test your knowledge and learn even more!
What is Myopia?
Myopia is an eye defect that creates blurred vision from afar. A myopic eye, therefore, sees items well close-up, but blurred from a distance. This vision problem is easily detectable because affected individuals tend to squint to see from a greater distance, get closer to their computer screen or have difficulty reading road signs.
This poor distance vision is a due to an eyeball that is too long. Because of its shape, a myopic eye does not allow the image perceived to be formed where it should be, meaning on the eye’s retina, at the macula level. The image thus forms itself slightly ahead of the retina, and prevents the individual from seeing a clear image.
There are three levels of myopia: a minor myopia can range from 0 to 4 diopters and a severe myopia exceeds 8 diopters, a diopter is the unit used to measured vision problems.
Causes of Myopia
Myopia could be genetic. It could also be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
For instance, while there is no particular gene or chromosome responsible for myopia yet, this vision defect is nevertheless transferred by genes.
Student Myopia
Among adolescents and particularly among students, near vision is used extensively more than distant vision. This has resulted in a phenomenon called “student myopia,” which is in large part due to the number of hours students spend looking at a sheet of paper, a book or a computer screen. This myopia is minor and does not surpass 1 or 2 diopters. A certain number of studies even show that each additional year spent studying results in degenerative myopia. The excessive use of a mobile phone and lack of exposure to natural light also adds to the condition.
Correct Myopia
Once detected, this vision defect can be easily corrected. The most common solution is to wear glasses or contact lenses. However, if the affected individual wishes to permanently fix his or her myopic problem for comfort, aesthetic or other reasons, it is possible to reshape the surface of the eye with laser eye surgery. Michel Pop proposes Lasik, All-Laser Lasik, PRK and intraocular lenses.
Numerous patients ask themselves…“Can myopia disappear naturally?” No, a myopic eye cannot heal by itself.
Finally, remember that it is necessary to undergo tests for myopia regularly to see the evolution of your vision and solutions that adapt to it.