|
|
Nearsightedness
|
|
-
Myopia refers to the ability to see near objects clearly and perfectly, while at the same time there is difficulty perceiving distant objects. It is a common eye condition, affecting 30% of the population in the United States.
|
|
- One may notice difficulty or progressive blurring while viewing TV and movies, reading chalkboards, and driving (road signs may be blurry).
- The eye may feel strained and tired after looking at a distant object.
- Headache after using the computer
- Children may fail or do poorly at school (difficulty seeing the material on the blackboard).
|
|
- Overworking the eye and its lens (cornea) by viewing text (reading and writing), small objects, or computer screens over time leads to an elongation of the eyeball and changes in the shape of the lens.
- The changes in the eye cause images and light entering the eye to be out of focus.
- Genetics (inherited from your parents) may play a role.
|
|
- History of symptoms and an eye exam by an optometrist or a physician
- Optometrists are not medical doctors, but have training in examining the eyes, and can make glasses and lenses according to the prescription from the Ophthalmologist (medically-trained eye doctor).
- Vision exam -- reading an alphabet chart at various distances Is used to establish the degree of myopia.
- An ophthalmoscope (a light source) is used to see inside the eye.
- The doctor may give special eye drops that enlarge the pupils so he can better see the structures inside. After the eye drops, vision is usually blurry, and driving is discouraged for 1-4 hours.
|
|
- Excessive and prolonged close-up work
- Family history
- Children or college students who do a lot of reading
- Working with small specimens (lab workers) and jewelers
- Computer users
|
|
- Best treatment is preventive
- Avoiding strenuous and prolonged periods of reading or writing
- Try to rest in between working with computers.
- Eye glasses and contact lenses are prescribed for driving, watching movies or TV.
- Orthokeratology refers to a non-surgical technique employing a series of specially- designed contact lenses to correct myopia over time.
- Laser surgery -- can correct myopia. Possible side effects include infection, pain, and permanent eye damage.
|
|
-
Regular eye
exams are helpful, especially if you have diabetes. If you are considering surgery, call your state medical board and check the records of the eye surgeon you are planning to use. Ask to speak to some of his former patients. For a list of surgeons, call the American Academy of Ophthalmology at 1-415-561-8500.
|
| | |
If you want your friend to read or know about this article, Click here
|
|
|