Guide to Controlling Myopia Progression: Expert Tips from Zamindar Microsurgical Eye Centre

Myopia (commonly termed short-sightedness) Progression is a condition where the light rays focus in front of the retina. It happens when the cornea is excessively curved or the eye is too long, which prevents light from focusing on the retina. Distant objects appear blurred while near objects are clear.

What are the Factors that contribute to Myopia development?

– Genetic factors

– Environmental / Lifestyle factors

  1. Decrease in outdoor activity
  2. Increased usage in smartphones / near digital devices / near tasks

What are the Problems faced by Myopia?

Apart from the functional deficits when Myopia is uncorrected, it can affect

career choices as well. In very small percentages Myopia becomes

pathologic and is associated with an increased risk of Cataracts, Glaucoma, Retinal detachment or squint and maculopathy. Other problems faced by Myopia are:

  1. Difficulty seeing objects at a distance: Myopia impairs vision, making it difficult to focus on faraway objects. As a result, it could be challenging to see traffic signs or see the board in a classroom.
  2. Eye strain and fatigue: Myopic individuals frequently need to squint or strain their eyes in order to see effectively. Eye strain, headaches, and even neck and back pain may result from this.
  3. Increased risk of eye diseases: A higher risk of major eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal detachment is linked to high myopia.
  4. Reduced quality of life: Daily tasks including driving, participating in sports, and socialising might be hampered by myopia. Also, it can have an impact on someone’s confidence and self-esteem, particularly in kids and young people.
  5. Dependence on corrective lenses: Myopic people frequently use corrective lenses like glasses or contact lenses to improve their vision. For some people, this may be uncomfortable, costly, and inconvenient.

What measures can prevent the onset and progression of Myopia?

It is well known that the common forms of childhood myopia are due to axial elongation (i.e a longer eyeball). The early intervention process aims at modifying this hence the potential for the progression of Myopia. While myopia can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery, it is important to control its progression. Here are some expert tips from Zamindar Microsurgical Eye Centre on how to do just that.

1. LIFESTYLE MODIFICATIONS: – Increased time spent outdoors: At least 2 hours of daylight exposure is found to be helpful. Reduced time on smartphones / near digital devices / near tasks has also been proven to be beneficial. Taking breaks from near work/reading. Good ambient light and a reading distance of 20-30cm are also some preventive measures.

2. OPTICAL TREATMENT: Spectacle Lenses and/or Contact lenses are another way of tackling Myopia Progression.

3. PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT: Atropine 0.01% eye drops instilled nightly has shown 30-60% efficiency slowing of Myopia progression in children over a 2-year period. The drops should not be stopped suddenly but require a slow taper to prevent a rebound increase in Myopia.

4. Get regular eye exams: Getting routine eye exams is another way to slow the progression of myopia. Your eye doctor will be able to keep a check on your vision and, if necessary, prescribe corrective lenses. They can also spot any adjustments in your vision that can indicate the advancement of your myopia.

5. Spend time outdoors: Spending time outside has been linked to a reduction in the progression of myopia, particularly in younger people. Strive for spending at least two hours each day outside.

6. Practice good posture: Eye strain and myopia progression can both be caused by poor posture. Keep your eyes a comfortable distance away from your computer screen when sitting up straight. Put your screen in a position where the top is at or below eye level.

7. Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet can assist maintain good eye health and stop the progression of myopia. Consume a lot of fruits and vegetables, particularly those that are rich in vitamin A, such as spinach, carrots, and sweet potatoes.

You may manage your myopia and stop it from becoming worse by obtaining regular eye exams, cutting back on screen time, spending more time outdoors, practising good posture, utilising the right lighting, eating a balanced diet, and looking into myopia control treatments.