Myopia (Nearsighted) Awareness Week
May 13-19, 2019
The World Council of Optometry and the Brien Holden Vision Institute have declared the week of May 13th-19th Myopia (Nearsighted) Awareness Week. Myopia, commonly called nearsighted, is a growing problem and one of the leading causes of decreased vision in the world.
What is myopia (nearsightedness)?
Myopia is when a person has difficulty seeing objects that are far away. While being nearsighted does not lead to permanent blindness, it can cause many problems with daily activities. This includes such things as driving, seeing the board at school, watching TV, and going to movies.
What causes a person to be myopic or nearsighted?
When your eyes are too long the focal point is located in front of the retina. The retina is where the rods and cones convert light images into neuro-images for the brain. These neuro-images are sent to your brain through the optic nerve and visual tracks. When you can only focus in front of your retina it causes the neuro-images that goes to the brain to be blurry. This, in turn, causes you to see blurry.
What can I do about it?
Nearsightedness is correctable using glasses, contacts, or refractive surgery, such as LASIK. The progression of myopia is typically associated with growth, so the major changes typically take place in childhood and the teenage years. However, research is showing an increase in nearsightedness with use of the digital devices. There are some corrective actions you can take, such as wearing “Relaxing” lenses or special contact lenses.
Schedule an Eye Exam
The best way to address your myopia is to schedule an eye exam. Dr. Penn Moody, Dr. Jessica Lambert, or Dr. Brian Swift will be able to advise you on the best way to address your personal situation. Take advantage of Myopia (Nearsighted) Awareness Week to have your eyes examined.