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VISION AND MYOPIA

What  is myopia??

Myopia occurs when light rays focus in front of the retina, rather than directly on its surface.

 

This can be due to two reasons:

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  1. The eyeball is too long (increased axial length) or

  2. The cornea and/or lens is too curved for the length of the eyeball.

 

It could also be a combination of the two.

Why does it occur?
girl, eye exam
boy, eye exam, glasses, myopia

The exact cause of myopia is unknown but there are several factors that can put a child at an increased risk to develop it. 

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  • Genetics  

    • If a parent is nearsighted, there is a greater risk their child will be as well

  • Excessive near work

    • "Near-work" such as reading, computer and phone work/games, watching television, etc. causes eye strain which researchers think might cause some degree of myopia. 

  • Lack of outdoor activities

    • ​Research has found that children who spend more time indoors are at greater risk than their peers that spend more time outdoors. 

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Why does it matter?

Myopia can be corrected with basic glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery, but this doesn't prevent it from getting worse.

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People are becoming myopia at younger ages and in increasing amounts of myopia.

 

While some people have minor inconveniences with myopia, others have what is called progressive myopia which is severe and degenerative. 

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Risk of complications increases with higher levels of myopia

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Myopia Prescription Severity Ranges: 

Mild: -0.25 to -3.00 

Moderate: -3.25 to -6.00

Severe: -6.00 or more

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For more info click on link below:

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Good news! There are now options to decrease progression!

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  Such as:

 

For more info on these myopia management options click on the tab below

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Myopia Risks
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