Understanding Myopia: Causes and Risk Factors

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision issue that affects how you see distant objects. People with myopia can see nearby objects clearly, but faraway ones appear blurry. This condition often develops in childhood and may worsen over time. Understanding its causes and risk factors can help you manage the condition and prevent its progression.
 

What Causes Myopia?

Myopia happens when the eye grows too long or the cornea curves too much. These changes cause light entering the eye to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This leads to blurry vision when looking at distant objects. Genetics and environmental factors both play a role in the development of myopia.
 

Studies show a strong genetic link, meaning it often runs in families. While genes are not the only factor of course, they significantly increase the likelihood of one being nearsighted.
 

Screen time and near work can also contribute to myopia. Spending long hours reading, using computers, or looking at phones puts extra strain on your eyes. Poor lighting or posture while doing close-up work can also increase the likelihood of developing myopia. A lack of outdoor activity may further increase the risk, as natural light is believed to support healthy eye development. This is especially true for children.
 

How Myopia Progresses

Myopia starts in childhood and progresses during one’s growth years. It stabilizes in early adulthood, though severe cases may continue to get worse. When doctors detect the condition early, it is possible to slow down its progression and avoid retinal detachment or glaucoma.
 

The Impact of Modern Lifestyles

Modern lifestyles are characterized by increased screen time and indoor activities. These are linked to the rising myopia rates. Children today spend more time on digital devices and less time on outdoor activities. This shift may explain why myopia has become more common in recent decades.
 

Preventing or Slowing Myopia

Encouraging outdoor play is one of the simplest ways to reduce myopia risk. Spending time in natural light may help slow eye growth and prevent worsening vision. Limiting screen time and taking regular breaks during near work are also important.
 

Why Early Detection Matters

Regular eye exams can identify vision changes before they impact daily life. Glasses or contact lenses can correct vision, while newer treatments may slow progression. If left untreated, severe myopia increases the risk of eye health issues later in life.
 

Myopia Management Options

For children and young adults, options like orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses or atropine drops may help slow the progression of myopia. These treatments are designed to control how the eye grows over time. Glasses and contact lenses remain the most common methods for improving vision.
 

Laser eye surgery may be an option for adults with stable myopia who want a long-term solution. Your eye doctor can recommend the best approach based on your age and the severity of your condition.
 

For more information on understanding myopia, visit Stratford Eye Care. Our office is in Hayward, California. Call (510) 973-4600 to book an appointment today.

 

Sources: 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nearsightedness/symptoms-causes/syc-20375556# 

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/nearsightedness-myopia