Myopia, or short-sight, is a refractive error in which distant objects appear blurred while near objects remain clearer. It occurs when the eye is too long or the cornea too powerful for its focusing system.
Effects on Vision
Light focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it, leading to blurred distance vision. People with myopia often squint to see distant signs or boards.
- Typically develops in childhood or adolescence
- Higher myopia increases the risk of retinal detachment and myopic maculopathy
- Can progress during the growing years before stabilising
Correction and Management
Myopia is corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery. The Blue Fin Vision® blog article what is myopia? explains causes and correction options in detail, and further information on laser options is provided in their myopia laser eye surgery guides.
Monitoring
Regular eye examinations are important to update prescriptions and monitor for myopia-related retinal changes.
