Understanding myopia: Causes, symptoms and solutions

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close objects remain clear. If you're myopic, you might find it challenging to see road signs, spot landmarks, or recognize faces from a distance, which can impact daily activities like driving or sports.

Symptoms of myopia

One of the main symptoms of myopia is blurry vision when viewing distant objects. Individuals with myopia often experience difficulty in activities such as watching a movie screen or reading signs while driving. Eye strain, headaches, and the need to squint to see clearly are also common signs. If left unchecked, these symptoms can interfere with both productivity and quality of life.

How is myopia diagnosed and treated?

To diagnose myopia, an eye examination conducted by an optometrist or ophthalmologist is necessary. During the exam, various tests are performed, such as measuring how light focuses in the eye and evaluating your distance vision. Once diagnosed, there are several options for correcting myopia, including glasses, contact lenses, and in some cases, refractive surgery.

Treatment options for myopia

Most people with myopia use prescription glasses or contact lenses to correct their vision. Glasses with concave lenses (marked with a minus sign) are the most common treatment, as they help focus light directly onto the retina. For those with higher degrees of myopia, thinner, lightweight lenses are recommended to minimize lens thickness, providing both comfort and aesthetics. In terms of frames, plastic frames are a popular choice for concealing thicker lenses, offering both durability and style.

In addition to glasses and contacts, some individuals may opt for laser surgery to permanently correct myopia. Procedures such as LASIK reshape the cornea, allowing light to properly focus on the retina, thus reducing or eliminating the need for corrective lenses.

Risk factors and prevention of myopia

Genetics play a significant role in the development of myopia. If one or both parents are nearsighted, their children are more likely to develop myopia. Environmental factors, such as prolonged time spent on screens or performing tasks that involve close-up work, may also increase the risk of myopia. Studies show that a lack of outdoor activity during childhood and adolescence can contribute to worsening nearsightedness.

Prevention strategies

While it’s difficult to prevent myopia entirely, some strategies can help slow its progression. Spending time outdoors, especially during childhood, has been shown to reduce the risk of developing severe myopia. In addition, following the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes when using digital devices—can help alleviate eye strain. Ensuring proper lighting when reading or using screens also promotes better eye health.

The progression of myopia

Myopia often progresses over time, particularly during the growth years of childhood and adolescence. If left unmanaged, it can lead to high myopia, which increases the risk of developing serious eye conditions such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, or cataracts later in life. This makes regular eye checkups crucial for monitoring changes in vision and updating corrective prescriptions as needed.

Find the perfect solution for your myopia

Whether you have mild or severe myopia, finding the right solution is key to improving your quality of life. At Seecly, we offer a variety of eyeglasses tailored to meet your specific vision needs. From trendy styles to high-quality lenses, you’ll find a selection that not only improves your vision but also suits your aesthetic preferences. You can also explore our guide on how to choose the perfect lenses to customize your eyeglasses and ensure the best possible visual correction.

Explore our wide range of eyeglasses to find the perfect pair that fits your lifestyle and visual needs. Whether you're seeking sleek frames, lightweight lenses, or high-fashion styles, we have options for everyone. Let us help you achieve clearer vision while staying on top of the latest fashion trends.