A generation at risk in quest for sharper vision; Studies have shown that every one out of three kids is suffering from myopia eye disease. Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a growing concern worldwide, affecting millions of kids and youngsters. According to WHO myopia is expected to reach 52% of the global population by 2050.
Myopia is more than just a simple vision problem; it is a complex eye problem that can lead to complications if left untreated. This is why early detection and treatment are crucial in managing myopia and preventing long-term consequences. However, a lack of awareness about myopia eye disease can delay the process of early detection, leading to permanent eye damage, especially if you are a parent or a caregiver.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of myopia in kids and youngsters exploring its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and more. Stay with us till the end of the article to understand myopia and protect your loved ones from it.
What is Myopia?
The refractive error occurs when the shape of the eye causes the light to focus in front of the retina, rather than directly on it. This results in blurred distance visions, while near vision remains normal. This means you won’t be able to recognize faces or read road signs until they are just a few feet away.
Myopia affects the eyes in many ways from difficulty in seeing distant objects clearly to eye strain to limited depth perception.
Types of Myopia eye disease:
Myopia can broadly be divided into the following types:
Axial Myopia: The most common type, caused by an elongated eyeball shape, results in an image focused in the front of the retina.
Refractive Myopia: As the name indicates, it is caused by an abnormal curvature of the cornea or lens.
Degenerative Myopia: Degenerative or pathologic myopia is characterized by degenerative macular changes of varying degrees and patterns. It means the damage has become advance that it cannot be corrected with corrective lenses or glasses.
Causes and Risk Factors of Myopia
Myopia is a complex condition that is influenced by multiple factors including genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
- Genetic Factors like family history and ethnicity
- Environmental Factors prolonged screen time, writing or reading too close to the notebook
- Lack of exposure to outdoor space
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity
- Premature birth
- Certain medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, etc.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Myopia
Recognising the symptoms of myopia and seeking prompt diagnosis is crucial for its effective management.
Common symptoms of myopia may include:
- Blurred distance vision: Not being able to see farther objects.
- Eye strain: Squinting, rubbing eyes, or experiencing headaches.
- Limited depth perception: Difficulty in judging distances.
- Difficulty in driving or playing sports: Feeling difficulty in watching distant objects clearly.
- Eye fatigue: Feeling tired or uncomfortable after prolonged near work
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis of myopia eye disease requires a comprehensive eye exam.
- Visual acuity test for measuring clarity of vision
- Refraction test to determine the strength of your perception
- Retinoscopy to measure a reflection of light in the eye.
- Auto refraction for automated measurement of perception.
- Cover test for checking eye alignment.
Who Should Get Tested?
- Children starting from 6 months to annually onwards.
- Adolescents, especially if myopia runs in the family.
- Young adults, when they notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms.
How to Treat Myopia?
Though Myopia cannot be cured, there are various treatment options and management strategies that can help correct vision, slow down the progression of the disease, and prevent further complications. These include :
Corrective Lenses
- Glasses are used to correct refractive errors. These are available in various frames and lenses.
- Contact Lenses come in various options such as daily wear, extended wear, or orthokeratology (Ortho-K).
Refractive Surgery
Refractive surgeries such as LASIK and Trans-PRK.
- LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is done to correct vision by reshaping the cornea and creating a thin flap over the cornea.
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is similar to LASIK, but without creating a flap. It works by removing the outer layer of the cornea.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Temporary corneal reshaping: These specially designed lenses are worn overnight to improve vision during the day.
Other Treatment Options
- Multifocal lenses to correct near and far vision.
- Refractive corneal cross-linking is used to strengthen the corneal tissue if cornea starts to change its shape.
- Implantable collamer lenses, these intraocular lenses are inserted inside the eye to treat refractive errors
Solutions to prevent Myopia:
Management Strategies are essential for preventing myopia eye disease in kids and youngsters as well as elder people.
- The most important step in preventing any eye disease including myopia is regular eye exams especially if you have a family history. Regular eye exams ensure timely diagnosis and intervention leading to effective prevention and treatment of the disorder.
- Change your lifestyle and include outdoor activities in your daily routine. Try spending at least 2 hours daily in outdoor activities.
- As our screens glow brighter, our vision becomes dimmer. To protect your eyesight, reduce screen time and limit digital device use or use anti-glare glasses to protect eyes from harmful rays of phone/laptop.
- Get proper sleep of about 7 to 8 hours every night.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Use proper lighting in your workplace or study room to minimise the strain on your eyes. Keep correct posture and give your eyes proper rest after intervals.
Conclusion:
Prevailing Eye Diseases in Children are a growing concern in Pakistan as well as the whole world. If left untreated myopia can lead to severe complications, impacting vision and overall eye health. This can jeopardise the future of our children. To counter this, it is essential to understand the causes and symptoms of myopia to prevent its progression in kids and youngsters. This is why EDO Eye Hospital Wah cantt is determined to raise awareness among the masses and provide the best possible treatment for myopia eye disease.
Our highly professionally trained staff is standing at the forefront of our war against eye diseases. With a steadfast commitment and years of experience, they are well adapted to treating a variety of eye diseases as well as raising awareness through community outreach programs. With advanced diagnostic equipment, modern operation theatres and a team of expert ophthalmologists and support staff EDO Eye Hospital is determined to provide the best care to its patients. Moreover, EDO Eye Hospital also extends a helping hand to deserving patients through the free treatment program.
Join us to make a tangible difference in the lives of your loved ones suffering from myopia and together, create a brighter, clearer tomorrow.