Do you often squint at distant objects or struggle to read road signs while driving? You may be experiencing what eye doctors call myopia or short-sightedness. Individuals with high myopia are at a higher risk of developing eye conditions that could lead to vision loss if left untreated.
In this post, we discuss the effects of high myopia and the ways you can manage it.
Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is a condition in which objects that are far away appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. When the degree of myopia is more severe, it is called high myopia, which is usually diagnosed when an individual has a refractive error of -6.0 diopters or more.
High myopia can increase the chances of certain types of eye conditions and complications, including:
High myopia is a condition where the eyeball becomes elongated, leading to the expansion of the retina. As a result, the retina can weaken and detach from the back of the eye, which is a medical emergency. Retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss.
Individuals with high myopia have an increased risk of developing glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve, often due to high pressure in the eye. Glaucoma can lead to irreversible blindness if not treated early.
High myopia can also increase the likelihood of developing cataracts, where the eye’s lens becomes cloudy and impacts vision.
High myopia can give rise to myopic macular degeneration, a condition in which the macula (the part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision) degenerates and causes vision loss.
To manage high myopia, it is important to undergo regular eye examinations and follow the recommended treatment plan of your eye doctor. Although glasses or contact lenses can improve vision for individuals with high myopia, they do not address the root cause of the problem and potential eye-related risks.
There is no guaranteed way to avert high myopia. Still, certain preventive strategies, such as spending more time outdoors, limiting screen time, or using special corrective lenses, may slow its progression.
Early detection is paramount in managing high myopia and reducing the risk of related conditions. Therefore, routine eye exams are essential for those with high myopia.
Being informed about the impact of high myopia goes a long way toward managing this condition effectively. Protecting your vision is crucial—do not take it for granted! Schedule an appointment with Joel H McGahen OD by calling (717) 264-4012 or completing our contact form. We also have low-vision specialists if you need low-vision therapy. We serve residents of Chambersburg, Shippensburg, and Green Castle, PA.