Nearsightedness (also called myopia) is common in people of all ages. It is typically defined as an inability to see far away or long distances. Millions of people worldwide suffer from myopia, a relatively prevalent condition. Read on to explore popular questions – and answers – about nearsightedness.
Q: What is nearsightedness?
A: Technically speaking, myopia is a refractive error that results in the eye’s inability to focus on light correctly. While distant objects are blurry, those nearby are visibly clear and crisp. In those who do not have myopia, light rays enter the eye and pass through the cornea and lens, followed by the retina at the back of the eye. When the eyeball grows too long (or the cornea is uneven), light rays focus in front of the retina instead of centered on it, and the image sent to the brain is blurry. Those with nearsightedness can correct their vision by donning prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, or laser vision correction such as LASIK.
Q: How common is nearsightedness?
A: In a recent study published by Jama, an estimated 30 to 40 percent of adults in the United States are nearsighted. It is estimated that by 2050, nearly half of the world’s population will suffer from myopia.
Q: What causes nearsightedness?
A: The exact cause of myopia is unknown, but contributing factors are well-known and include genetics, eyestrain (books, computers, tablets), and lifestyle (not being outdoors where light is much brighter.)
Q: Is laser vision correction for nearsightedness permanent?
A: While laser vision correction reshapes the cornea and corrects nearsightedness at that exact moment in time, the possibility for the patient’s vision to deteriorate in the future is still plausible. If the patient develops cataracts, glaucoma, or presbyopia (natural aging of the eye), glasses will probably still be necessary when the lens loses its ability to focus on nearby objects.
Q: What demographics are good candidates for laser vision correction?
A: Typically, adults over the age of 20 who have a stable prescription, healthy corneas, and are in good general health are recommended for LASIK or other vision correction procedures.
Are you tired of suffering from nearsightedness? Contact the vision experts at Rohr Eye & Laser Center to learn about our treatment options today.
Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 or visit https://www.michiganlasik.com/ to schedule an appointment today.
Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.