What is Myopia, and How is it Managed?

Myopia, commonly known as shortsightedness, is a vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. This condition is becoming increasingly common worldwide and can impact daily activities such as driving, watching TV, or enjoying sports.

Genetic and Environmental Causes of Myopia

Myopia is a refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or an elongated eye, affecting how light is focused on the retina. In a myopic eye, light focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it, causing distant objects to appear blurry.

Myopia often has a genetic component and tends to run in families. It usually begins during childhood and can worsen until stabilising around age 20. Environmental factors, such as prolonged close-up work (reading, computer use) and insufficient time spent outdoors, also contribute to myopia.

Typical Symptoms of Myopia

People with myopia usually experience:

• Clear vision up close (e.g., reading or using a computer)
• Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly
• Straining or squinting to see into the distance
• Headaches, eye fatigue, or eye strain from trying to focus on distant objects

Diagnosis of Myopia in Newcastle West

Myopia is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam with our qualified optometrist. The optometrist will assess your visual acuity during the exam and prescribe corrective lenses if needed.

Fun Fact: A negative number indicates a myopia prescription (e.g., -1.75).

Myopia Management Options at For Beautiful Eyes

If you are concerned about your or your child’s worsening myopia, our Myopia Management programs can help slow down the progression. Our approach includes a range of treatments tailored to each patient’s needs:

Ortho-K Lenses: These are corneal reshaping contact lenses worn overnight. They gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, allowing for clear vision during the day without needing glasses or contact lenses.

Multifocal Contact Lenses: These lenses provide different correction levels to help manage myopia and are worn daily.

Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine drops can be used to slow the progression of myopia.

For some, refractive surgery like LASIK or PRK is an option. However, it is usually recommended for those over 20 years old and carries more risk as it involves permanently reshaping the cornea. Our skilled optometrist can guide you through this treatment process if necessary.

Myopia Care for Any Age in NSW

Don’t let myopia impact your or your child's quality of life. Schedule a myopia management consultation at For Beautiful Eyes. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalised care to help you manage your myopia effectively.