subject: Nearsightedness Causes, Treatment And Prevention [print this page] Driving and distinguishing distant signs may become gradually more difficult. Adjusting the newspaper in and out as if playing the trombone just to see the print, squinting at the computer screen and having difficulty seeing objects clearly that are far away can all be signs of Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness. With proper care and treatment, vision will last a lifetime.
How the Eyes Work
In order for the eyes to focus on objects in the distance, the cornea, a clear oval-shaped surface at the front of the eye must bend light in an exact angle to focus. The lens, another surface over the entire eye, similar to a contact lens, must also bend to refract or focus light toward the back of the eye.
When the cornea and lens change shape, a normal process of aging, eyestrain and genetics, simple eye care may be insufficient to correct your vision. When the eyes have difficulty focusing on objects that may be just out of arms reach or just across the room, it is time to see the eye doctor.
Causes
Nearsightedness or Myopia passes from parent to child. If both parents are nearsighted, the risk is even greater for unfocused distance vision. Despite receiving regular eye care checkups, Myopia may still develop.
Babies born prematurely are also at risk for developing similar eye conditions. Computer work, reading and other close work may change the shape of the eye, over time. All of these circumstances can decrease quality of life and cause headaches to develop from squinting to focus. Avoiding timely eye care can increase your risk of Glaucoma, damage to the optic nerve and even retinal tearing.
Some nearsighted individuals experience floaters, blurred vision, sudden flashes of light across the eyes or the sensation of a dark blanket over the eyes. These conditions may be the result of retinal thinning that can occur, over time, if Myopia is untreated.
Treatment and Prevention
Make an appointment with an eye doctor. He or she will provide a basic eye exam. Simple tests with special tools can diagnose and treat Myopia. Corrective lenses or contacts may improve the condition, immediately. The doctor may also recommend eye vitamins to strengthen the eyes, adjusting your work station to avoid eye strain and taking eye "rest periods".
Some individuals prefer surgery. Reshaping the eye will prevent the need for eye wear, reading glasses or contacts. This safe and common surgery, LASIK surgery allows the doctor to reshape the eye, simply and permanently, repairing the Myopia. Be sure to contact your eye doctor for eye problems, questions, prevention and treatment.
