Nearsightedness (Myopia)

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a vision disorder where a person sees nearby objects clearly, but distant objects appear blurred. In other words, near vision is sharp, but distance vision is impaired. This condition occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light rays passing through the lens to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This results in a blurry image.

Myopia can be:

– Mild (0 to -3 diopters),
– Moderate (-3 to -7 diopters),
– High (more than -7 diopters).

Its progression is often linked to genetic factors as well as lifestyle, especially in younger generations who spend too much time on screens and lack exposure to daylight.

Myopia usually develops gradually, most often during childhood or adolescence, when it is typically diagnosed.

The most common symptoms include:

– Blurred vision of distant objects (e.g. road signs, TV, classroom board),

– Frequent squinting or partially closing the eyes to see clearly,

– Occasional headaches caused by eye strain,

– Eye fatigue after prolonged reading or screen use,

– A need to sit closer to what is being viewed – TV, monitor, board,

– Poor night vision.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to worsening myopia, so it is important to regularly visit an eye doctor.

Myopia is the result of a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Main causes include:

Genetics – if one or both parents are nearsighted, the child has a high likelihood of developing myopia.

Excessive near work – prolonged reading, screen use, or computer work can contribute to the development of myopia.

Lack of natural light – studies suggest children who spend more time outdoors have a lower risk of developing myopia and experience slower diopter progression.

Poor lighting and improper screen distance – long-term eye strain can promote the onset of myopia.

Unhealthy diet and lifestyle – a lack of vitamins and antioxidants can affect overall eye health and contribute to myopia progression; excessive sugar may also have a negative impact.

Myopia typically develops during childhood, most commonly around puberty, and can gradually worsen into adulthood. Early diagnosis is crucial, as untreated myopia can affect not only academic performance but also the overall quality of life.

How to recognize myopia in children?

– The child frequently rubs their eyes or complains of headaches,

– Moves closer to objects while watching TV or reading,

– Has trouble focusing in school, especially when reading from the board,

– Squints or partially closes their eyes when looking into the distance.

If myopia is suspected, parents should visit an eye doctor as soon as possible to prevent further progression.

Myopia values are given in diopters with a minus sign. Common treatments include glasses, contact lenses, or even night lenses. Treatment options include:

1. Eyeglasses – the simplest and most common form of correction.
2. Contact lenses – suitable for people who prefer not to wear glasses; regular care and hygiene are essential.
3. Orthokeratology (night lenses) – special lenses worn overnight that temporarily reshape the cornea to provide clear vision during the day.
4. Pharmacological treatment – low-dose atropine eye drops may slow myopia progression in children.
5. Healthy lifestyle – a diet rich in vitamins A, C, E, and lutein supports eye health, along with plenty of physical activity and daylight exposure.

For those who cannot or do not wish to wear glasses or contact lenses, there are surgical solutions using various laser techniques. At the Dr. Böhm Eye Center, we offer an invasive surgical procedure called PRELEX, where the surgeon replaces the patient’s natural intraocular lens with an artificial one, eliminating the need for glasses.

At the same time, this also serves as a prevention against cataracts, because artificial intraocular lenses do not become cloudy with age like natural lenses, protecting the patient from a very common senior-age diagnosis – cataracts. PRELEX is a suitable surgical method for patients aged 45 and older, at the onset of presbyopia (reduced focusing ability). For younger patients whose eyes can still accommodate, implantation of a phakic EVO ICL lens is the appropriate option.

Every surgery carries both benefits and risks, so it is important to consult with an eye surgeon about the suitability of the procedure.

Myopia is becoming an increasingly common problem, but with proper correction, prevention, and modern treatment options, it can be effectively managed. Regular eye check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and proper eye care are key to maintaining good vision throughout life.